How to decide if basic auto insurance is right for you

Basic auto insurance is the minimum coverage mandated by the state of California, and it’s the least amount of insurance you can carry to drive your vehicle legally. At Murvay Insurance in Newport Beach, CA, we are independent insurance agents who work for our customers. Our job is to personalize your auto insurance to meet your specific needs.

In California, basic insurance is liability-only and follows the 30/60/15 rule. This means you must have at least $30,000 in liability coverage for one person injured in an auto accident you’re responsible for, $60,000 for all persons injured in the accident, and $15,000 in property damage. This coverage protects other people from you but does not provide any protection for you or your vehicle.

What Type of Vehicle Do You Have?

Do you have a newer vehicle? Do you have a car loan, or are you leasing the vehicle? In these cases, you’ll likely need collision and comprehensive coverage. Leasing companies or loan providers typically require these types of coverage. You may also want to consider Gap coverage, which pays the difference between what you owe on the vehicle and what your insurance will pay in the event of a total loss.

Can You Afford to Replace Your Vehicle?

If your vehicle is damaged or destroyed in an accident and you’re held responsible, you’ll need to pay for repairs or replacement out of pocket if you don’t have collision insurance. For example, if a stone cracks or chips your windshield, or if a tree branch falls on your vehicle, you’ll be responsible for the repair costs. If this were a financial burden, having the right coverage is essential.

Contact our office at Murvay Insurance in Newport Beach, CA, to discuss your auto insurance needs. We’re here to help you find the coverage that works best for you.