Are You Covered? The Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements for California Drivers

Have you ever loaned your car to someone and later found out that they got into an accident? The first question on your mind may be, Is my car still covered if someone else has an accident in it? Luckily, many auto insurance policies have what’s called gratuitous use coverage which protects you from that possibility. However, it’s important to understand how this works before you lend your car to anyone else in the future.

What is Minimum Liability Car Insurance Coverage?

Car insurance is a mandatory purchase when registering and operating a vehicle. Minimum liability coverage will offer protection for property damage and bodily injury to others. If you're at fault, this level of coverage will pay for the other driver's damages. But, this type of car insurance won't protect you against your own negligence or reckless behavior.

For example, if you don't wear a seatbelt or drive over the speed limit then this coverage may not be enough to help with your injuries. Drivers under the age of 18 are required by law to have minimum liability coverage. There are many drivers that do not understand how much they need until they need it! A lot of drivers ask themselves Is my car still covered if someone else has an accident in it? The answer is yes, as long as the other person has your permission to use the vehicle, their liability isn't covered by any other insurance policy, and they meet the same terms of the policy that you do.

What does Permissive Use Mean in Auto Insurance?

If someone is authorized to use the vehicle, their liability and collision coverage are extended to that vehicle. Permissive use can be given with written permission from the insured (i.e. a spouse, employer, etc.). As long as the driver's liability and collision coverage isn't covered by any other insurance policy, and they meet the same terms of the policy that you do, then they're permitted to use your vehicle.

Permissive use can also be implied; for example, you may have given your son a spare key so he could pick up groceries on his way home from work while you were stuck at the office all day. Implied permission would allow him to drive even if there was no paperwork allowing him to do so! For this reason, make sure everyone who should be driving knows what they're doing behind the wheel. Driving without a license or without passing a test not only endangers yourself but also those around you.

What are My Options When Buying Auto Insurance?

One of the most difficult parts of owning a vehicle is figuring out how to make sure that it will be protected if something were to happen. While everyone hopes that their vehicle will never be in an accident, knowing how to choose the right coverage and protection can help to relieve some of the stress. One of the first decisions that needs to be made when choosing auto insurance is deciding between a liability policy and comprehensive coverage.

A liability policy may cover damages or injuries that are caused by another driver or even pedestrian while driving on public roads or highways and typically covers up to $25,000 worth of damages per incident while comprehensive coverage typically covers both physical damage as well as other costs related to a vehicle such as maintenance or theft.

Do I Need Collision Coverage If There Isn't a Lien on My Vehicle or I'm Self-Employed?

While collision coverage isn't necessary for the majority of cars, there are exceptions. If you need this type of coverage and don't have a lien on your vehicle or a job that provides it, most states require proof of ability to pay for repairs (collision).

As long as the other person has your permission to use the vehicle, their liability isn't covered by any other insurance policy, and they meet the same terms of the policy that you do, then yes--it should be safe. Collision may also be necessary if there's not enough equity in your car. In order to decide whether or not collision is necessary or even helpful, contact a local agent or speak with a licensed attorney near where you live. There are many factors that go into making this decision, so it's best to get an expert opinion first.

How Much Personal Injury Protection Should I Get?

Personal injury protection pays for the injuries that are the result of either a car or a motorcycle accident. If you are at fault, then most likely, your PIP will cover medical costs and lost wages up to $10,000 per person.

If you aren't at fault, then they will cover medical costs but not lost wages. The two times when your PIP will also cover lost wages are if �� 1) You are injured as a pedestrian, bicyclist, passenger on public transportation, or on private transportation who does not have the right to control its operation; 2) You are involved in an automobile collision with another vehicle which has been rented under a long-term lease by its owner.

Do I Have to Have Bodily Injury Liability Coverage on Any Vehicle I Drive, Even If I Don't Own It?

Liability coverage provides protection to the policyholder (person who owns or leases the vehicle) and passengers inside their vehicle. It protects against a lawsuit where the at-fault driver (person whose negligence caused the accident) might not have enough insurance to cover your losses. These are some examples of what your liability coverage may protect:

- Damages to other vehicles - Personal injury claims by other drivers or passengers - Medical bills for occupants of the at-fault driver's vehicle and those injured in the crash

A lot of people think that they don't need this type of coverage on a borrowed or rented vehicle, but these are just two common misconceptions about auto liability insurance. The truth is that everyone needs bodily injury liability coverage on any vehicle they drive, even if they don't own it!

Continuation (six+ sentences): - You can't predict when another person will make a mistake that could harm you and others around them. That's why it's important to have adequate protection when driving any type of vehicle, including ones that aren't yours!

What Happens if I Don't Carry Minimum Limits of Coverage on My Vehicle(s)?

Driving without the proper amount of coverage could result in having to pay for the damages out of pocket. This can result in a significant financial burden, and make that person less likely to buy insurance ever again. Not carrying the right limits can also result in points on one's driving record, which could lead to increased rates on their auto insurance.

The best thing to do is always meet state minimums and have enough coverage for other passengers as well, because no matter who causes the accident, both parties will be liable for damages unless one meets certain conditions.

If you are unsure about what your coverage entails, contact your agent. As long as the other person has your permission to use the vehicle, their liability isn't covered by any other insurance policy, and they meet the same terms of the policy that you do, then there shouldn't be any issue with having them in or around your vehicle.

What are the benefits of being a member of AAA?

There are a few perks that come with being a member of AAA. One of the best benefits is their roadside assistance, which will tow or push your vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility and pay for up to four hours of labor time or other necessary expenses.

You'll also have up to 25 gallons of gas delivered to your location, tire changes (and flats repaired), and locksmith service on-demand--anytime, anywhere! And don't forget about their travel services: discounts on hotel rates, maps, guides, and free travel planning services.

For members who rent cars from Avis/Budget/Hertz/National Car Rental at select locations, AAA can help get reimbursed for damages caused by collisions or vandalism not covered by insurance. Plus there's so much more: roadside event services like live entertainment and souvenirs; 24-hour emergency medical support through hospitals nationwide; local event ticketing through Ticketmaster*; concierge shopping service; travel offers at exclusive savings off of retail prices.