CA Car Insurance Conundrum

February 28, 2024 4:55 PM

Can one get car insurance immediately after a lapse in California?

A friend of mine was hospitalized and their car insurance lapsed. Now her current provider and another have both said she can't be covered until after 15 days.

Where can she get insurance right now so she can drive to work?

Many thanks in advance. This is very frustrating and pretty unbelievable.

posted by snsranch to Travel & Transportation (4 answers total)

I accidentally let my car insurance lapse last year and I was able to get immediate coverage through Progressive, though my original provider had the 15 day wait. I think she should keep trying different providers until she finds one who will agree, or call an insurance broker.

She can always price shop after finding coverage.
posted by muddgirl at 4:58 PM on February 28 [1 favorite]

Response by poster: Ok, thanks muddgirl!
posted by snsranch at 5:00 PM on February 28

I did some searching and here are some recommendations I found:

* If you are in Northern California, AAA Northern California may still offer same day or next day coverage for members

* Toggle

* Mercury
posted by muddgirl at 6:55 PM on February 28 [1 favorite]

I accidentally let mine lapse briefly last year but was able to reinstate it immediately, with Wawanesa. Maybe they are as flexible with new customers?
posted by Horselover Fat at 7:45 AM on February 29 [1 favorite]