California

California requires minimum liability of 30/60/15 — $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 bodily injury per accident, and $15,000 property damage. These are state minimums; consumer advocates typically recommend higher limits (100/300/100) to cover serious injuries.

Bodily injury liability in California pays for medical bills, lost wages, and pain-and-suffering damages owed to people YOU injure in an at-fault crash. The minimum is $30,000 per injured person and $60,000 total per accident. These are caps on what your insurer will pay; you are personally liable for damages above the policy limit.

Property damage liability in California pays for damage YOU cause to other people's vehicles, fences, buildings, and other property. The minimum is $15,000 per accident. Given the rising cost of vehicles and repairs, this minimum often falls short of a single luxury vehicle's repair bill.

California does not strictly require UM/UIM coverage, but insurers must offer it. UM/UIM coverage must be offered at minimum liability limits; insured may waive in writing. UM/UIM coverage protects YOU and your passengers when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient limits to cover your injuries.

Alternatives include a $35,000 cash deposit with the DMV, a $35,000 surety bond, or DMV-issued self-insurance certificate (fleets of 25+). SR-22 required after DUI, at-fault uninsured accidents, or excessive points; renewable for three years.

For the most current minimum auto insurance requirements in California, consult the official source at https://www.insurance.ca.gov/. State minimums change periodically; verify current law before relying on these figures.