Entering into the California car insurance maze? It’s just like locating the perfect taco in a teeming street festival — there’s so many different kinds, all of them claiming supremacy. If your insurance isn’t sound in that area, forget it. Wild drivers who are predictable as a kitten chasing a laser pointer. The task doesn’t have to make you go up the wall-are you ready to take on the essentials of automotive insurance in this Golden State Auto Rates?

Top of the list; insurance law in California insists that every driver be covered at least for liability. The result? At least very theoretically, to bring finer roads throughout the state. This traditional coverage aids in paying for damage done by yourself as caused and causes an automobile mishap–but don’t kid yourself, it’sfeathers and wax. Traveling along those intense highways in LA or winding around the streets in San Francisco, and getting more comprehensive insurance could just save your skin. None of us want the shock of a big bill afterwards from a fender bender.

Let’s get to the premium soup. Have you ever noticed that they change about as often as California’s tectonic plates? Calm one day, trembling the next! Variables–ranging from your driving record, age and at times even where you park your car at night–can all swing those expenses. Live in a neighborhood with a reputation fora lot of auto theft? Anticipate pain. A spotless history? That might save a little.

Here’s a tidbit that might make for interesting conversation–drivers who log fewer miles on their cars often receive a price break. It’s California’s way of saying thank you for helping to keep those intractable traffic jams on the freeways a bit less–well, jammed. And the brains behind the brackets aren’t always human. Telematics will save you money if your style of driving looks like that of a prudence-minded grandmother heading out for a Sunday afternoon drive.

Dodging drivers who are distracted? Serious business indeed, but here’s a little laughter mixed in. Don’t get fast and furious in California. For your peace and for your wallet, it’s best this way. With earth, fire, and cascading rivers of mud all dancing to their own beat, it might be worth your while to opt for a little peace of mind comprehensive coverage.

A final tip? Don’t be like you’re frozen in the headlights of oncoming fate. Keep insurance details such as your policy number, card, and even an old-fashioned disposable camera within arm’s length. It may save your life, or it may not. But if you can imagine the scene, you will be OK. Even though California car insurance seems scary, with a good map you’ re all good to go and on the move.