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Think about how many times a week you get in and out of your car. Undoubtedly this amount is quite familiar to you, as it is something you engage in everyday. Think a bit further and realize how many times you shuttle your kids to and fro or buy groceries. Certainly, with the rising cost of gasoline you have paid close attention to your driving habits. However, when was the last time you checked the validity of your car insurance?

Every state in the United States requires that licensed drivers carry auto insurance, and California is no difference. California auto insurance laws are similar to laws in other states. The minimum level of auto insurance in CA is called "liability insurance."

There are statutory minimum requirements for California auto liability insurance. This requires at least $15,000 minimum coverage for bodily injury for one person in one accident. Additionally, coverage must insure for bodily injuries of every person in one accident up to $30,000. There are also requirements for insuring property damage: $5,000 for any single accident. You may choose to insure for higher amounts, but these are the minimums that are legally required.

Every driver must carry proof of insurance at all times. This is done for your safety and for the safety of others. It ensures that, in the event of an accident, both parties will be able to trade accurate information and resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

Failing to carry proof of auto insurance in CA can result in dramatic consequences. If you do not have proof of California auto insurance, you can't legally obtain or renew a vehicle registration. Similarly, if you do not carry proof of insurance, your registration can be suspended - sometimes indefinitely - until you provide proof of insurance. This means that you will not be legally able to drive. Moreover, proof of insurance matters even outside the DMV. If you are stopped by a police officer for any traffic violation, you are legally required to display that proof.

You know now how important it is to have auto insurance in CA. Minimum liability coverage might sound like a lot of money, but many insurance companies currently offer minimum coverage at affordable rates. If you do a little bit of research, you can get insured for a reasonable price - and if you have a good driving record, that price will go down. Ultimately, it's much safer, and much cheaper, to abide by the law and get car insurance. If you get in an accident, you'll save money, and if you drive safely, you'll be a law-abiding citizen.