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What to Know About California’s Car Insurance Requirements

California law requires every driver to carry proof of financial responsibility. In most cases, this means maintaining an active auto insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. As of 2025, those requirements have increased under a new law designed to protect both drivers and accident victims. If you need guidance with a car accident claim please contact our Fresno personal injury attorneys today at (559) 447-9000.

The New Minimum Insurance Limits for 2025

Effective January 1, 2025, Senate Bill 1107 raised California’s minimum liability coverage limits for the first time in over 50 years. Every driver must now carry at least:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury or death per person

  • $60,000 for bodily injury or death per accident

  • $15,000 for property damage per accident

These California limits, often referred to as 30/60/15, replace the outdated 15/30/5 minimums that were no longer sufficient to cover the cost of modern vehicle repairs and medical treatment. The updated amounts ensure that drivers who cause accidents can provide adequate compensation to those they injure.

Insurers will automatically adjust existing policies to meet these new limits at renewal, but drivers should call to confirm that their coverage is compliant. Operating a vehicle without proper coverage can lead to personal liability for uncovered damages.

Optional Coverages Worth Considering in California

While the 30/60/15 coverage is required by law in California, it may not provide enough protection in serious accidents. Drivers can strengthen their policies with optional coverage types, such as:

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Covers your injuries and losses if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage.

  • Collision Coverage: Covers repairs to your car after a crash, regardless of fault.

  • Medical Payments (MedPay): Covers medical costs for you and your passengers, even if you are at fault.

  • Rental Reimbursement and Towing Coverage: Helps with temporary transportation and roadside emergencies.

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Pays for vehicle damage caused by theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

Proof of Insurance and Penalties for Noncompliance in California

All California drivers must carry proof of insurance at all times. Law enforcement officers may request this proof during a traffic stop, after an accident, or when renewing registration. Electronic proof, such as a digital insurance card, is acceptable. Drivers who fail to maintain valid insurance face serious penalties, including:

  • Fines ranging from $100 to $500 for a first offense

  • Suspension of vehicle registration

  • Impoundment of the vehicle

  • Personal liability for damages if involved in an accident

The California Department of Motor Vehicles can also suspend your registration if your insurer reports a policy cancellation.

What to Do After a Fresno, CA Car Accident

If you are involved in an accident, take the following steps:

  1. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
  2. Move vehicles to safety if they are drivable and do not pose a traffic hazard.
  3. Still call law enforcement to report the accident if calling 911 is unnecessary. A police report helps establish fault and supports your claim.
  4. Exchange information with all parties: names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plates, and insurance information.
  5. Gather evidence by taking photos of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  6. Get witness contact information in case testimony is needed later.
  7. Seek medical attention as soon as you can, even if injuries appear minor. Some symptoms develop later.
  8. Notify your insurer about the accident promptly. Provide accurate details and any police report numbers.
  9. Confirm submission of the DMV accident report (Form SR-1). Your insurer usually files this for you, but you remain legally responsible for ensuring the DMV receives it within 10 days if anyone was injured, killed, or property damage exceeds $1,000.
  10. Keep copies of all records, including repair estimates, medical bills, and correspondence with insurers.
  11. Speak to a Fresno car accident lawyer as soon as possible

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