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Maintaining car insurance in California isn’t just a good idea for protecting your financial investment. Drivers in the state must also keep active liability auto insurance policies to comply with the law. Carrying auto insurance protects you from financial challenges that can occur if you’re at fault for an accident that damages someone else’s vehicle or causes bodily harm. While most people want to be responsible, you might face challenges with paying for insurance if you fall within the low-income range. Exploring how California makes auto insurance more affordable can help you avoid having a lapse in your policy.
Know about California’s Low-Cost Automobile Insurance Program
The CLCA is a state-sponsored program meant to help people keep auto insurance for their vehicles regardless of their income or immigration status. Making it easier for everyone to afford auto insurance ensures fewer people face the issue of paying for damage that occurs through the fault of an uninsured driver. The annual premiums you’ll pay with this program can vary somewhat from one county to another. But they’ll typically cost less than what you’ll pay for a general auto insurance policy. Keep in mind this insurance is for liability only. This means the policy will cover damage that occurs to the other party’s vehicle when you’re at fault for an accident.
Find Out if You’re Eligible for Low Insurance Rates
To use this type of insurance coverage, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility requirements. You’ll first need to have a valid California driver’s license and own a vehicle valued at $25,000 or less. Drivers covered by the policy must also be 16 years of age or older. The biggest factor regarding whether you can get this form of insurance is your income. Currently, you’ll need to make $32,200 or less to be eligible as a single-person household. The income eligibility guidelines increase with each additional person in your household, and you may need to check back to see if you’re eligible when your circumstances change.
Focus on Maintaining a Good Driving Record
Similar to policies that aren’t sponsored by the government, you’ll find practicing good driving habits comes with the reward of discounts on your policy. To get the best rates for your policy, you’ll want to maintain a driving record that includes having no more than a single at-fault accident involving only property damage. You’ll also want to avoid any accidents that include bodily injury for at least three years. Avoiding convictions for traffic violations is also helpful for procuring the lowest-cost auto insurance policy possible.
Learn Additional Ways to Keep Insurance Cost Low
If you aren’t eligible for the CLCA program or you phase out of it, you’ll want to explore other ways to make auto insurance more affordable. Working with an insurance agency can help you find possible discounts. For example, you might be able to bundle insurance types to receive a discount on your policy. Highlighting your safe driving record can also help you receive discounts for insurance that improve its affordability.
California drivers who are looking for reliable, affordable auto insurance should reach out to the experienced professionals at Altra Insurance Services. In addition to car insurance, we offer a variety of coverage types, including motorcycle, homeowners, and renters insurance. San Diego residents can call one of our friendly agents today for a free quote.