Driving in Santa Ana comes with its own unique rhythm, from navigating the I-5 during rush hour to finding parking near the Downtown area. While you’re focused on safe driving, it’s just as important to make sure your auto insurance policy is working as hard as you are. Many local drivers unknowingly make simple mistakes with their coverage that can lead to big financial headaches down the road.
Let’s review the top three auto insurance mistakes we see Santa Ana drivers make and, more importantly, how you can fix them to ensure you’re fully protected.
Mistake #1: Choosing Minimum Liability to Save Money
California state law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. While opting for this bare-minimum coverage might seem like a good way to save a few dollars each month, it’s one of the riskiest choices you can make.
The state minimums are often far too low to cover the costs of a serious multi-vehicle accident on the 55 Freeway or a significant injury. If you’re at fault in a crash and your liability limits are exhausted, you could be held personally responsible for the remaining medical bills and repair costs, putting your savings, home, and future earnings at risk. Increasing your liability limits is one of the most cost-effective ways to add significant financial protection.
Mistake #2: Not Reviewing Your Policy Annually
Life changes, and so should your insurance. Many drivers in Santa Ana simply let their policy automatically renew each year without reviewing it. This can mean you’re missing out on new discounts, paying for coverage you no longer need, or—more dangerously—being underinsured for your current situation.
Major life events like moving to a new neighborhood, buying a new car, adding a teen driver, or even just seeing a significant improvement in your credit score can all affect your insurance rates and needs. An annual review ensures your coverage accurately reflects your life.
Mistake #3: Overlooking Valuable Discounts and Coverage Gaps
Insurance companies offer a variety of discounts, but they won’t always apply them automatically. Many Santa Ana drivers are leaving money on the table by not asking about savings they may qualify for.
- Common Overlooked Discounts: These can include safe driver discounts, multi-policy discounts for bundling your auto and home insurance, good student discounts, and discounts for certain safety features on your vehicle.
- Common Coverage Gaps: Conversely, you might be missing crucial coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, which is vital in a state with a high number of uninsured drivers, or rental car reimbursement, which is a lifesaver if your car is in the shop after a covered claim.
Drive into 2026 with Confidence
Avoiding these common mistakes is the key to ensuring you have the right protection for life on the road in Santa Ana. A proper policy isn’t just about meeting a legal requirement; it’s about securing your financial well-being against the unexpected.
Since 1989, Neighborhood Insurance Agency has been helping our Santa Ana neighbors navigate their insurance choices. We provide clear, local advice and shop multiple carriers to find you the right coverage at a competitive price.
📞 Call us at (714) 285-9990 or visit www.niacoverage.com for a free policy review before your next trip!
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Reference
Insurance Information Institute. (2024). What is covered by a basic auto insurance policy? Retrieved from https://www.iii.org/article/what-covered-basic-auto-insurance-policy
The Hartford. (2024). Common Car Insurance Discounts. Retrieved from https://www.thehartford.com/car-insurance/discounts
State Farm. (2024). Common Car Insurance Discounts. Retrieved from https://www.statefarm.com/insurance/auto/discounts