In California, motorists are required to carry the state-mandated minimum auto liability coverage to operate their motor vehicles in public spaces. Therefore, driving without auto insurance in The Golden State isn’t allowed, it’s illegal.

What happens if you get behind the wheel without insurance and get caught?

There are many possible consequences of driving without car insurance. For starters, you could go to jail, which is rare for this offense but it’s well within the realm of possibility. Common penalties for driving without car insurance include suspension of your driver’s license, suspension of your car’s registration, being fined or getting a ticket for the insurance violation. Now, Wine Valley Insurance Services wants you to understand the real costs of driving without insurance.

The Real Cost of Driving Uninsured

The fear of getting caught shouldn’t be the only reason for avoiding driving uninsured. In fact, it’s not the worst that could happen. It’s all about being considerate for your own financial well-being and that of other users. Car insurance is supposed to pay for any damages or bodily injuries resulting from an accident. When auto coverage isn’t available, the uninsured driver will have to cover the expense out of pocket.

The situation could get much worse if in the event of an accident involving two — or more — cars you, the uninsured driver, are determined to be at fault. You will face the legal penalties, on top of which you will be required to pay for the damages as well as the medical expenses (if any) out of pocket. Penalties can be more severe if there are any fatalities or serious injuries.

To avoid these unpleasant situations, it’s best that you purchase car insurance. There are many coverage options; you can always choose one that falls within your budget. Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA can help you with that. We have a wide range of auto insurance coverage options all designed to meet the specific needs of our customers. Contact us via phone to talk to one of our agents for more information on available auto insurance coverage options or visit our offices in Napa, CA. We also write policies for Washington, Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, and Idaho.

 

Driving in Napa, CA provides gorgeous views, but to enjoy the road legally and safely, you must carry auto insurance. Before you choose a minimum coverage policy, learn about the different types of auto insurance coverage and the situations each cover. You may need a custom policy or full coverage. Wine Valley Insurance Services can help you analyze your situation and determine which coverage best suits your situation.

Liability
In the US, most states require auto insurance (liability). If you have an auto accident and you are at fault, this coverage pays for damages to the vehicles of others involved and their medical bills. It also covers other property damage you caused.

Collision
Collision provides coverage to repair your vehicle even if you were at fault for the accident. If the accident totals your vehicle, this coverage pays its current value.

Comprehensive
Comprehensive covers all other damages like weather, animal collision, theft, or even your car getting keyed at the mall.

Uninsured Motorist
This coverage pays if the other vehicle’s driver caused the accident, but carried no insurance or too little.

Medical / Personal–Injury
Regardless of fault, medical/personal injury coverage pays your medical bills and your passengers’. 

Guaranteed Auto Protection
GAP coverage pays off your remaining car payments if an accident totals your vehicle. Some lenders require GAP insurance.

Rental Reimbursement
This coverage provides a rental car while your vehicle gets repaired.

Emergency Roadside Assistance
This coverage provides a tow truck or emergency repair assistance. It also covers lockouts. 

Mechanical Breakdown
Think of mechanical breakdown insurance as a warranty extension. It covers repair costs to mechanical systems and parts.

Non-Owner Car Insurance
This provides liability coverage for people who don’t own a car. Courts may require someone with a suspended driver’s license to purchase this as a condition of reinstatement.

Let Wine Valley Insurance Services of Napa, CA make choosing the right auto insurance easy. Come discuss your needs and options with us. Try our online rating tool to get a quote on your car!

Everyone knows that insurance is required to stay legal on the road and is used for individuals to protect themselves from expenses incurred from accidents, but do you know whether or not you should purchase full coverage insurance or liability insurance only?

What Is The Difference?

When you opt to purchase full coverage insurance in Napa, CA and the surrounding areas, you select a deductible or the amount you must pay up front for repairs to have your claim paid for during a covered event. It covers things like medical bills, the cost of repairs, towing, and other related expenses. Rather than covering any damage you may have caused to another vehicle or injuries, like liability insurance, full coverage allows you to pay for most of the costs associated with an accident from all perspectives.

How To Decide Which Coverage Works Best 

When shopping for insurance at Wine Valley Insurance Services, you should consider the age of the car, as well as the cost of repairs and whether or not you are looking for savings. If you have an older car, you might consider going with liability only to save money every month. If you are leasing a vehicle or have a newer model car, it is either required or highly advisable that you carry full coverage insurance. Your deductible is also going to influence your monthly payment amounts as well, so keep in mind that a lower deductible will mean a higher premium.

If you want quality insurance and personalized service from knowledgeable agents, contact Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA for available insurance products and services. Get insurance that gives you the protection you need and the customer service you want.