California Insurance Policy Rules and Car Accidents in California 2022

What to Know About Coverage and Car Accidents in California in 2022

California, like most states, requires drivers to have insurance, also known as financial responsibility, on their vehicles. Not only are you, as a driver, required to have coverage, but you must also carry proof of this coverage whenever you are behind the wheel.

In 2019, over 35,000 people were injured or killed in motor vehicle accidents in Los Angeles alone. This number is a staggering reminder that crashes can happen anytime and that having sufficient liability coverage is necessary.

So, what insurance or financial responsibility meets the minimum criteria in California?

Insurance Types

Most drivers find that having coverage through an insurance company is the easiest way to satisfy the state’s requirements. However, there are other types of acceptable insurance. These include depositing a lump sum of money with the DMV or obtaining a self-insurance certificate.

Whichever method you choose, there are many reasons that you should comply with this insurance requirement.

Protection for Others

Liability insurance pays for damage you cause to another driver and their vehicle. Not many people have the ability to pay for the costs associated with extensive property damage or injuries.

Carrying liability coverage is one way to ensure other people will get the financial compensation they need to recover from an accident and that you are protected if a lawsuit is brought against you.

Protection for You

Having adequate financial responsibility coverage is crucial for protecting you as a driver. While liability coverage meets the minimum requirements, you also have the option to get additional benefits or more inclusive coverage added to your policy.

By including collision coverage, for example, repair costs for your vehicle may be paid for by your coverage provider, saving you money and hassle.

You should also keep in mind the requirement to carry proof of your insurance with you. You could face penalties if you do not carry this proof with you or cannot produce it when required or are asked to do so. These include:

• Suspension of your vehicle registration;
• Fines and other monetary penalties;
• Vehicle impounding; or
• Loss of your license.

If you were to cause an accident and be sued by the injured motorists, your insurance company has a duty to defend you in the lawsuit. Without sufficient coverage, you could be facing tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, medical bills, and property damage.

Many insurance companies also offer things like roadside assistance, theft and vandalism coverage, and storm damage protection. These benefits may allow you to have an increased chance of utilizing your coverage plan’s benefits even if you are lucky enough to avoid any car accidents.

The bottom line is that foregoing car insurance can have negative legal and financial consequences that just aren’t worth the risk.

Who Do You Call If You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident?

Under California law, you are entitled to pursue compensation from all parties that may have caused or contributed to your car accident and resulting injuries. The personal injury attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers want to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

In the unfortunate event that you are involved in a car accident, we can guide you on what to do next. At ALL Trial Lawyers, we want to assist car accident survivors and loved ones of those who have died in car accidents in California with their injury and wrongful death claims.

Call us now to speak a lawyer and for your free consultation. Contact our office at (866) 811-4255.

We proudly serve all of Southern California. We have an office located near you and we’re ready to start working on your case.

We have handled hundreds of personal injury cases in Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, San Diego County and Riverside County.