San Diego Auto Insurance

" onsubmit="return validateForm();">

Auto Insurance Information by State

Get all of the information you need to make a decision on auto insurance coverage. Learn more about your state's insurance laws, types of insurance and how to save money.

Please take advantage of our free information and services with no obligation to purchase.

Popular Carriers

The second largest city in California and the southern half of the Los Angeles megalopolis contains just under two million registered drivers in San Diego County alone. Combined with the massive number of registrations in the surrounding metropolitan areas, it makes for an increased likelihood of a vehicular incident. Here is a brief look at some auto-related statistics for San Diego, California:

  • 8,991 auto accidents in 2008
  • 15,837 vehicle thefts in 2009
  • Average commute time of 24.9 minutes
  • 18% of drivers are uninsured

With a high number of accidents per year, trailing only Detroit and San Francisco, comprehensive San Diego auto insurance is a necessity. In order to properly register your automobile in San Diego, minimum standard auto insurance must be purchased from a California Insurance Department licensed insurer. California Department of Motor Vehicles requires liability insurance in order to register and operate a vehicle. The minimum requirements in order to register an automobile and receive license plates include the following:

  • Bodily Injury Liability
  • Property Damage Liability

All California registered drivers must have at least minimum liability coverage, with severe penalties for being an uninsured driver. Coverage beyond collision, uninsured motorist, and medical payment insurance are not required. Bodily injury liability coverage provides $15,000 for the death or injury of any one person and $30,000 for all persons involved. Property damage liability provides $5,000 for any one accident. Liability insurance covers the driver's legal liability for bodily injury and property damage.

California drivers who cannot financially meet the minimum requirements for auto insurance have the option of enrolling in the Low Cost Auto Insurance Program. Designed to reduce the high numbers of uninsured drivers, the program provides low income, good drivers with an affordable auto insurance option. For more information, call (866) 602-8861. It is important to remember to shop for low prices as well as quality service. It is the driver's responsibility to determine the amount and types of coverage needed. Always carry proof of insurance in your insured vehicle. San Diego auto insurance quotes can be found here at SmartAutoInsurance.com.

Principal Department of Motor Vehicles locations are listed here:

  • 4375 Derrick Dr., San Diego 92117
  • 6111 Business Center Court., San Diego 92154
  • 30 North Glover Ave., Chula Vista 91910
  • 1450 Graves Ave., El Cajon 92021
  • 3960 Normal St., San Diego 92103
  • 13461 Community Rd., Poway 92064
  • 725 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 92025

The phone number for the Department of Motor Vehicles is (800) 777-0133