As California’a population grows, more and more motorists and motor vehicles will be using our roads and freeways. Therefore it is in everyone’s best interest to make sure they have adequate auto insurance coverage. California has many scenic routes that are perfect for driving vacations, and with holidays like Memorial Day and the Fourth Of July weekend approaching, many drivers will be heeding the call of the open road. If you’re one of them, make sure that you make the most of your driving experience by ensuring that your vehicle and your loved ones are properly protected. Not only does it make financial sense, but it’s also a legal requirement.

Motor Vehicle law in the State of California requires that every registered motor vehicle be insured, regardless of the driver. The required minimums for motor vehicle liability insurance are $15,000 in bodily injury coverage for a single person, and $30,000 for all persons injured in a traffic incident.

Insurance carriers in the State of California are required to offer coverage for uninsured and underinsured drivers. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance covers medical costs in the event that you are involved in an accident where the other driver is at fault, and is uninsured or does not carry sufficient coverage.

In addition to basic liability coverage, you will probably want to consider purchasing additional coverage to protect your own vehicle. Collision coverage helps pay for damages to your car if you are at fault in a traffic accident. Comprehensive insurance covers damages to your car that are not traffic-related, such as damages resulting from theft and vandalism. The minimum for property damage coverage is $5,000. The property damage liability coverage pays for damages to other vehicles that are damaged in an accident for which you are the responsible party.

All forms of motor vehicle insurance carry with them a deductible that needs to be met before the insurance carrier will provide financial remuneration. High deductibles will lower your monthly insurance premiums. Other factors that will lower your premiums include your age, your marital status, the make and model of the vehicle you drive, and the zip code where your vehicle is parked at night.

There are many different types of policies and policyholders that can accomodate every kind of California driver, from the weekend enthusiast to the daily commuter. Some of the more popular and best reviewed insurance carriers inculde Allstate, State Farm, AAA, USAA, and Geico. Visit them online or speak to a customer service representative to determine what kind of coverage is right for you.