Honestly, the minimum coverage in California barely scratches the surface if you’re in any kind of real accident. I get that premiums are steep, but after seeing what repairs cost on even a mid-range car, I wouldn’t risk it. There are some insurers that offer customizable plans—maybe not full coverage, but a step up from the bare minimum. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than getting stuck with a massive bill.
Had a buddy rear-end someone at a stoplight last year. He thought, “Hey, I’ve got the legal minimum, I’m good.” Spoiler: he wasn’t. The other car was a newer Lexus, and the repairs plus medical bills went way past his coverage. He’s still paying off the difference.
Honestly, if you’re driving in California, minimum coverage is just asking for trouble. I get that
, but the cost of being underinsured is way worse. My advice—bump up your liability at least. It’s not that much more and it saves a ton of headaches.“premiums are steep”
Yeah, I’ve been there—had a minor fender bender last year and even with “decent” coverage, I was sweating bullets. The minimums in California are just not realistic with how expensive cars and medical bills are now. Like you said,
I get why people try to save on premiums, but honestly, one accident and you’re on the hook for thousands. Even bumping up liability by a little bit can make a huge difference. It’s just not worth the gamble.“the cost of being underinsured is way worse.”
Man, I totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve got a ’72 Chevelle that I baby, and even though it’s not my daily driver, I still carry way more than the minimum. Had a buddy who thought he was being smart by skimping on coverage—one rear-end at a stoplight and he was in the hole for YEARS. The other guy’s car was some new luxury SUV, and the repair bill was just... wild.
I know premiums aren’t cheap, especially out here, but honestly, the peace of mind is worth it. It’s like, you wouldn’t drive around with bald tires just to save a few bucks, right? Same logic. I’d rather skip a couple fancy coffees a month than risk losing my ride—or worse, my savings—over one bad day.
Not saying everyone needs to go full “show car” insurance, but those state minimums feel like they’re stuck in the 90s. Just doesn’t add up with today’s prices.
Not gonna lie, I get the logic, but sometimes it’s just not in the budget to go above minimums.
For some folks, it’s more like skipping groceries or rent. I’ve seen plenty of claims where people never even come close to hitting those high limits. It’s a gamble either way, but for some, the extra cash every month just isn’t there.“I’d rather skip a couple fancy coffees a month than risk losing my ride—or worse, my savings—over one bad day.”
