California Car Insurance Companies
Looking for cheap car insurance in California? Your rates can vary based on your driving record and which provider you choose. Read our guide for a full review of California car insurance companies near you. Enter your ZIP code below to compare California car insurance quotes from multiple companies to find cheap coverage near you.
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Chris Harrigan
Former Auto Insurance Claims Manager
Chris Harrigan has an economic degree from Limestone College and an MBA from Clemson University. He previously managed auto insurance claims for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Currently, he is using his business and insurance expertise to provide insurance data analysis and visualizations to enhance the user experience.
Former Auto Insurance Claims Manager
UPDATED: Nov 6, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right car insurance coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our car insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different car insurance companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Nov 6, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right car insurance coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our car insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different car insurance companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- AM Best Rating: A-
- Monthly Rates From: $53-$174
- Types of Coverage: Aircraft, Auto, Commercial Auto, Earthquake, Flood, Homeowners
- Customer Service & Claims Number: 800-927-4357
California is home to almost all car insurance companies ranging from well known brands such as Geico and Allstate to boutique firms specializing just on the California car insurance market or simply certain types of vehicles like antique and classic cars. Drivers range from those driving just a few miles to work to those that drive across the state, or even the country. California auto insurance companies have to cover the whole range of drivers.
Drivers need options just like they do in other states. Some have to adjust for crime while others adjust for snowy weather in the winter. Insurance brokers quote coverage based on whether drivers want liability insurance only or physical damage coverage for their car.
Enter your ZIP code above to find affordable car insurance quotes from multiple California insurance companies near you.
| Coverage Type | California Companies | U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|
| Full Coverage | $174 | $119 |
| Minimum Coverage | $53 | $45 |
Cost of California Car Insurance
California Car Insurance costs can vary significantly depending on various factors, including your location, driving history, the type of coverage you choose, and the insurance company you select.
Understanding the average cost of car insurance in California and the factors that influence these rates is essential for making informed decisions when it comes to protecting your vehicle and finances. Here are the cost of car insurance in California and provide insights into what can influence the rates you receive.
- Location: Your place of residence plays a significant role in determining your insurance rates. Urban areas, where there is higher traffic and a greater likelihood of accidents, tend to have higher premiums.
- Driving Record: Your driving history, including any accidents or traffic violations, can impact your insurance rates. Safe drivers often enjoy lower premiums.
- Type of Coverage: The level of coverage you choose, such as liability-only or full coverage, will affect your premiums. Full coverage, which includes comprehensive and collision coverage, is typically more expensive.
- Vehicle Model: The make and model of your car can influence insurance costs. High-performance or luxury vehicles may come with higher premiums.
- Age and Gender: Younger and less experienced drivers, as well as male drivers, often face higher insurance rates.
- Credit Score: In some cases, your credit score may be considered when calculating insurance premiums.
California Car Insurance is influenced by a wide range of factors, and it can vary greatly from one driver to another. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of car insurance tailored to your specific circumstances, it’s best to obtain quotes from different insurance providers and consider the coverage options that meet your needs.
Remember that while affordability is essential, it’s equally important to ensure you have adequate coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle in case of accidents or unexpected events.
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Exploring Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage Options in California
When searching for car insurance in California, you have various coverage options to consider. The primary coverage includes liability coverage, which is divided into bodily injury liability to cover others’ medical expenses and property damage liability for property repairs.
You can also opt for collision coverage to protect your vehicle in case of accidents, comprehensive coverage for non-collision incidents like theft, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to safeguard against uninsured or underinsured drivers.
Additional options comprise personal injury protection, medical payments, rental car reimbursement, towing and labor coverage, roadside assistance, and gap insurance if your car is leased or financed.
California’s minimum liability coverage is a requirement, but you can tailor your coverage to suit your individual needs with these varied options. Consulting with an insurance expert can help you choose the right mix of coverages for your circumstances.
California Car Insurance Discounts: How to Save on Auto Insurance in California
If you’re on the hunt for cost-effective auto insurance in California, it’s worth delving into the various ways you can save money with insurance providers. These potential savings avenues encompass a range of discounts:
- Safe Driving Discount
- Policy Bundling Discount
- Good Student Discount
- Defensive Driving Course Discount
- Low Mileage Discount
- Vehicle Safety Features Discount
- Loyalty Discount (for remaining with the same insurer)
- Multi-Car Policy Discount
- Paying Premiums in Full Discount
- Special Military Personnel Discount
Make sure to engage in a discussion with your selected insurance company to make the most of these opportunities for savings while ensuring you maintain comprehensive coverage.
Building Industry Insurance Association, Inc. Claims Process
Ease of Filing a Claim (Online, Over the Phone, Mobile Apps)
When it comes to filing a car insurance claim in California, convenience is key. Insurance companies have adapted to the digital age, offering multiple channels for policyholders to file their claims. Whether you prefer the ease of online submissions, the convenience of a phone call, or the accessibility of mobile apps, California car insurance providers have you covered.
With the option to file claims online, over the phone, or via mobile apps, you can choose the method that suits your needs and preferences.
Average Claim Processing Time
Timely claim processing is crucial for policyholders dealing with car accidents or damages. In California, the average claim processing time can vary from one insurance company to another.
It’s essential to consider this factor when choosing a car insurance provider, as faster claim settlements can alleviate stress during difficult times. Be sure to check with your chosen insurer about their claim processing times to make an informed decision.
Customer Feedback on Claim Resolutions and Payouts
Customer feedback is a valuable resource for evaluating the performance of car insurance companies in California. How well an insurer resolves claims and the satisfaction of policyholders with their claim payouts can be indicative of the company’s reliability.
Before selecting a car insurance provider, take the time to research customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their track record in handling claims. This information can provide valuable insights into the insurer’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
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Building Industry Insurance Association, Inc. Digital and Technological Features
Mobile App Features and Functionality
In the digital age, mobile apps have become essential tools for managing various aspects of our lives, including car insurance. California car insurance companies offer mobile apps with a range of features and functionalities. These apps allow policyholders to access their insurance information, make payments, and even file claims conveniently from their smartphones.
When considering an insurance provider, explore the features and functionality of their mobile app to ensure it meets your needs for on-the-go insurance management.
Online Account Management Capabilities
Online account management is another key aspect of the digital experience provided by California car insurance companies. Policyholders can access their accounts through web portals, where they can review policy details, update personal information, and track claims.
The availability of user-friendly online account management tools can significantly enhance your overall experience with an insurer. Be sure to evaluate these capabilities when choosing a car insurance provider in California.
Digital Tools and Resources
Beyond mobile apps and online account management, car insurance companies in California often offer a range of digital tools and resources to assist policyholders. These resources can include insurance calculators, educational materials, and safety tips.
Exploring the digital offerings of an insurance provider can help you make an informed decision, ensuring that you have access to valuable information and tools to support your insurance needs.
Customer Reviews on California Car Insurance
California Car Insurance companies are a valuable resource for anyone seeking reliable coverage. These reviews offer insights into the customer experience, including the ease of filing claims, the responsiveness of the company, and overall satisfaction with the claims process.
Reading these reviews can help you make an informed decision when choosing an insurance provider, ensuring you find one that aligns with your needs and expectations. Whether you’re looking for top-notch customer service, prompt claims resolutions, or competitive rates, customer reviews can provide valuable guidance in selecting the right California car insurance company for your specific requirements.
History and Mission of California Car Insurance
California car insurance companies have a rich history dating back to the early days of automobile insurance. They have evolved to meet the diverse needs of the state’s drivers, adapting to changing laws and driving conditions. The mission of California car insurance providers is to offer affordable, comprehensive coverage while adhering to the state’s insurance regulations.
They strive to protect and serve their policyholders by providing financial security and peace of mind on the road, aiming to make auto insurance accessible and hassle-free for all California drivers. Throughout the years, their commitment to this mission has remained unwavering, making them an essential part of California’s automotive landscape.
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What are California’s Car Insurance Laws?
Back in 2005, a state law was passed by the California legislature requiring all car insurance companies to provide consumers with free quotes of the providers lowest price personal car insurance policy detailing:
(a) Policy limits requested by the consumer and
(b) Those which he/she is eligible for.
In addition, the law also states California licensed car insurance companies must also provide these quotes by way of a toll free number or access to a company website where a consumer can be referred to a company agent or broker who can and will provide an estimate.
What is interesting about this California law is that it also requires CA licensed car insurance companies to provide a toll free number and/or website address and the Department of Insurance actually published a near complete list on the Department’s website. These laws are all about protecting consumer interests. Insurance companies can and do still make significant profits. They just have to meet set standards to do business in California.
As of 2010, below is a near complete list of car insurance companies in California licensed to provide auto insurance policies. Please note this list may not be current or complete as updates are done regularly. So always check with the California Department of Insurance for the most current information.
What Car Insurance Companies Operate in California?
Here is a list of California car insurance companies.
- 21st Century Insurance
- 21st Century Superior
- AAA
- Aca Insurance
- Access Insurance
- Alliance United
- Allied Property And Casualty
- Allstate
- Allstate Indemnity
- Amco Insurance
- Anchor General Insurance
- California Automobile Insurance Company
- California Casualty Indemnity Exchange
- California State Automobile Association Inter-Insurance Bureau
- Coast National Insurance
- Commerce West
- Esurance
- Explorer Insurance
- Farmers
- Financial Indemnity Company
- Geico Casualty
- Geico General Insurance
- Geico Indemnity
- Government Employees Insurance Company (Geico)
- Granite State Insurance
- Hartford Casualty
- Hartford Underwriters
- Ids Property Casualty
- Infinity Insurance Company
- Kemper Independence
- Liberty Mutual Fire Insurance Company
- Mercury Casualty
- Mercury Insurance
- Metropolitan Direct
- Mid-Century Insurance
- National General
- Nationwide
- Permanent General Assurance
- Progressive Casualty
- Progressive Choice
- Progressive West
- Safeco
- State Farm Mutual
- The Standard Fire Insurance Company
- USAA – United Services Automobile Association
- USAA Casualty
- Victoria Fire & Casualty
- Viking Insurance Company Of Wisconsin
- Wawanesa General
- Western United
That’s an impressive list. As you can see most of the big car insurance companies, and many independent once, operate in California.
So how do you choose which company is best for you? Let’s take a look.
Who are the top 10 California Car Insurance Companies by Market Share?
According to the California Department of Insurance the top 10 personal auto insurance companies offering policy coverage in California are:
- State Farm
- AAA
- California State Automobile Association Inter-Insurance Bureau
- Mercury Insurance Company
- Allstate
- Mid-Century Insurance
- 21st Century Insurance
- Farmers Insurance Exchange
- Infinity Insurance Company
- Progressive
Who is the Best Auto Insurer in California?
Whether or not a company is listed on any top 10 list the question of who is the best car insurance California company for any given market is even harder to define as the word’s best and can mean different things to different people. The best insurance carrier for a driver in San Diego isn’t necessarily the same as it would be for a driver in San Jose or Emeryville. Even if you’re just going by price, the results are unique to the driver.
If you’re looking for the best service, strongest coverage, or something else, it can become more complicated. Things like custom auto parts create a mix unique to the driver.
Choosing a car insurance company needs to be based on your own personal needs and any top 10 list or company ratings should be used just as a single factor in your final choice for a provider.
Does California Offer low Income Car Insurance Assistance?
Yes, California has an auto insurance program designed to help low income drivers obtain car insurance coverage below the minimum required. The program is called the California Low Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA).
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How do I Get a California Car Insurance Quote?
Hopefully the list above helps identify potential auto insurance companies for your new policy. However, this is only a partial list and California is home to the largest auto insurance market with over 100 providers in the state.
Your best option to find the most affordable car insurance coverage in California is to always start an auto insurance quote comparison search online.
Each insurance shopper needs to get a California car insurance quote or read car insurance company reviews. You may be surprised at the outcome.
Search our site for information on ways to save money on car insurance, common auto insurance discounts, what types of coverage are available, how to file a car insurance claim and more. Educate yourself about auto insurance now to save money for life.
Just enter your ZIP code below to get FREE auto insurance quotes today.
Compare quotes from the top car insurance companies and save
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Chris Harrigan
Former Auto Insurance Claims Manager
Chris Harrigan has an economic degree from Limestone College and an MBA from Clemson University. He previously managed auto insurance claims for Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Currently, he is using his business and insurance expertise to provide insurance data analysis and visualizations to enhance the user experience.
Former Auto Insurance Claims Manager
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.