South San Francisco, CA asked in Car Accidents and Gov & Administrative Law for California

Q: my car of 5 days was trying to change the title. insurance companys Cal. were not selling auto insurance to anybody. I d

did have another vehical that was insuried. C.H.P. did not cite me for not having insurance . The truck driver was cited. This was Aug 2023. Do I have a exemtion?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: I understand you're asking about a complex situation involving a car accident, insurance, and potential exemptions. Let me break down the key points and provide some general information based on your question:

1. You had a new car for 5 days and were in the process of changing the title.

2. Insurance companies in California were not selling auto insurance to anybody at that time (August 2023).

3. You had another vehicle that was insured.

4. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) did not cite you for not having insurance.

5. The truck driver involved in the accident was cited.

Regarding your question about an exemption, it's important to note that California law typically requires all drivers to have valid auto insurance. However, your situation seems unusual due to the insurance companies not selling policies at that time.

Here are a few points to consider:

1. California does have a low-cost auto insurance program for eligible drivers, which might have been an option if regular insurance wasn't available.

2. The fact that the CHP did not cite you for lack of insurance might work in your favor, but it doesn't necessarily mean you're exempt from the insurance requirement.

3. Having insurance on another vehicle you own doesn't typically cover a newly acquired vehicle automatically, but some policies do offer a grace period for new vehicles.

4. The unusual circumstances of insurance companies not selling policies could potentially be a mitigating factor in your case.

To get a definitive answer about whether you have an exemption, you should:

1. Consult with a local attorney who specializes in traffic law or auto accidents. They can review the specifics of your case and provide personalized legal advice.

2. Contact the California Department of Insurance to inquire about any special provisions or exemptions that might have been in place during that time.

3. If you're dealing with a legal case or insurance claim, gather all relevant documentation, including proof of your attempts to obtain insurance and any communications with insurance companies.

Remember, while the information provided here is general, your specific situation may have unique factors that could affect the outcome. It's always best to seek professional legal advice for situations like this.

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