California Insurance, Collisions & Records
Every driver in California is required to carry minimum liability insurance and must know what to do if they're involved in a collision. Failing to meet these obligations can result in license suspension and serious legal consequences.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
California requires at minimum: $15,000 for injury or death of one person, $30,000 for injury or death of more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage (15/30/5). Driving without insurance is illegal and results in fines and potential vehicle impound. Always carry proof of insurance in your vehicle.
What to Do After a Collision
Stop immediately — leaving the scene of a collision is a crime (hit and run). Provide your name, address, driver's license number, vehicle registration, and insurance information to the other party and any officer. If property other than a vehicle was damaged and the owner is not present, leave a note with your contact information. Report collisions involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the DMV within 10 days using an SR-1 form.
Driving Record & Points
California uses a point system to track driving record violations. Minor violations add 1 point; major violations (DUI, hit and run, reckless driving) add 2 points. Accumulating too many points results in a negligent operator designation and potential license suspension: 4 points in 12 months, 6 in 24 months, or 8 in 36 months.
Key Rules at a Glance
- Minimum liability insurance: $15,000 / $30,000 / $5,000
- Collision reporting threshold: Injury, death, or damage over $1,000 — report within 10 days
- Hit and run: A crime — you must stop and exchange information
- Points for major violations: 2 points (DUI, reckless driving, hit and run)
- Negligent operator threshold: 4 pts/12 mo, 6 pts/24 mo, or 8 pts/36 mo