subject: Car Accidents and Driver Responsibility in Orange County, CA [print this page] Car Accidents and Driver Responsibility in Orange County, CA
Since 1872, general California civil law has held people responsible for injury or damages they cause to other people. Car accidents are no exception. Over the years, the California legislature passed even more specific laws that stipulate requirements and monitor responsible behavior.
The California compulsory financial responsibility law
Financial responsibility for a car accident is accomplished by requiring that all drivers living in California have a means of being financially responsible for auto accident damages.
Options to cover damages include:
A minimum liability insurance policy that covers: $15,000 coverage for death or injury of any individual in a single accident
$30,000 for all persons involved in a single accident
$5,000 of property damage in a single accident
A $35,000 cash deposit with the CA Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
A surety bond for $35,000 from a CA licensed insurance company
A self insurance DMV issued certificate to fleet owners of more than 25 vehicles
Most people choose the car liability insurance option, which is a type of no-fault insurance that pays for damages regardless of who is at fault in a car accident.
Further regulation/enforcement of the compulsory financial responsibility law
Under California law that went into effect in 2006, insurance companies were required to electronically report insurance coverage information to the DMV within a specified timeframe, including policy renewal, termination, or any change of information. For other information about driver responsibility in California car accidents, speak with a car accident lawyer in Orange County.
This change allows the DMV to access insurance information at will and suspend vehicle licenses when insurance is not kept up to date.
Other regulations require carrying proof of insurance in vehicles at all time to present to authorities:
When registering your car
When stopped by a police officer
When involved in a traffic accident
If driving a vehicle that has suspended registration, you face additional liability that includes:
Receiving a traffic citation or having your car impounded
Being held personally liable for injury and damages in a car accident
Learn more about California's insurance laws at the Department of Motor Vehicles website.
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