california auto insurance

California Auto Insurance

If you're shopping for California auto insurance, it can get pretty expensive. It's important to be aware of what the insurance companies look for when they offer the lowest rates.

With the state's high accident record, it's no secret that a good driving record is critical to your ability to obtain, afford, and retain California auto insurance. If your past is free of tickets, accidents, and drunk driving arrests, chances are excellent that you will pay much less than the person who has a history of these infractions.

Fortunately, your driving record only goes back so far. Driving offenses typically disappear from your record after three or more years, depending on the seriousness of the offense.

The type of vehicle also figures prominently. Sports cars, always a California favorite, can cost significantly more to insure because they are also a favorite among thieves, because statistically people tend to drive them faster, and because they may have a higher replacement cost than something like a sedan or a van.

You can lower your premium by buying less expensive cars and maintaining a clean driving record. Your insurer may offer discounts if your car has added safety measures such as anti-lock brakes and air bags, and anti-theft devices such as an alarm or a tracking device. If you drive an older car, you may want to consider carrying only liability coverage if the cost of collision and comprehensive coverage outweighs the potential benefits.