The rates that individuals pay for automobile coverage may vary for many different reasons for the residents of the Golden State. Insurers calculate their premiums based on many factors such as driver’s record, gender, age and the vehicle to be insured. Another factor that may cause a major difference in rate is the place of residence. Living in a highly congested area can raise the chances of being involved in a traffic accident and therefore carriers may charge higher prices to insure these motorists. Also, areas with a higher crime rate can affect the price of comprehensive and collision prices due to the fact that they are more likely to be be stolen or vandalized.

Due to the fact that providers will charge each applicant differently, the best approach to finding low cost car insurance policy is by comparison shopping. By doing so the consumer will quickly realize just how much one company’s rate can differ from another’s. By taking the time to obtain as many quotes as possible from various companies and comparing them, the consumer will give themselves a better chance of finding the lowest costing coverage. Getting quotations is free and
only takes a little time but can definitely help save some hard earned money.

The CA Low Cost car insurance Program

Unfortunately many individuals occupy the roads without having a policy in
place. This is not only illegal but can lead to fines, suspension of driving
privileges and even lawsuits if they cause an accident. Many of these drivers
believe that they simply cannot afford the state’s minimum liability requirements
and risk driving uninsured. By comparing several companies a person should be
able to find affordable protection, for those who cannot there is an alternative.

As of December 10, 2007 the state has made the California Low Cost Automobile
Insurance Program available to motorists of all counties. This was introduced to help keep uninsured drivers off of the roadways and help residents obtain affordable coverage to help them drive legally and also have a way to pay for any injuries and damages that they may cause with their automobile.The state has recently announced a high increase of residents beginning to utilize the program which is a good sign indicating that more individuals are using this resource rather than drive uninsured.

Although this program my be helpful, there is a downside; the limits of liability of the program are lower than that of the required minimum if purchased on one’s own which translates into less protection following an accident. One should compare rates of policies with the state’s requirements with that of the program’s cost and see if they are comparable; they may be able to afford more protection and avoid future financial burden. There are certain eligibility requirements and one should contact the state’s Department of Insurance for full details regarding the program.