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What is full coverage car insurance in California?
By Simple Lane Editorial Team · · 5 min read
The term "full coverage" means different things to different people. Here’s what a California auto policy really includes when you say "full coverage."
If you finance or lease a vehicle, your lienholder almost always requires "full coverage" auto insurance. But the term isn’t technical it’s shorthand. Here’s what it actually means in California.
What’s included in "full coverage" in California
- Liability Covers the other driver. California now requires minimum 30/60/15 under SB 1107 (effective 1/1/2025). We often recommend higher.
- Collision Repairs your car after a crash with another vehicle or object.
- Comprehensive Covers non-collision losses theft, vandalism, fire, hail, flood, falling objects, animal strikes.
- Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Pays your damages when the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough coverage.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Covers medical bills for you and passengers regardless of fault.
- GAP Pays the difference between your loan balance and the insurance payout if your car is totaled.
Is full coverage required by California law?
No. California law only requires liability insurance meeting SB 1107 minimums. Collision, comprehensive, UM/UIM, MedPay, and GAP are all optional unless your lender requires them (which most do).
Contact us
Contact Simple Lane Insurance Agency in El Cajon for a policy tailored to your vehicle, your budget, and California’s new SB 1107 rules.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.