In an effort to stem the tide of uninsured drivers in California and offer a low priced insurance policy for the poor, state legislators created the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program.

The pilot program was launched on July 1, 2000 for San Francisco and Los Angeles county drivers. Since then, the program has expanded into all 58 counties.

As wet weather covers the state, slick and flooded roads threaten to wreak havoc for drivers.

Motorists having to drive in wet weather should slow down, allow more space between cars while driving, turn on their headlights and not try to navigate deep pools of water at flooded intersections.

In 2009, the California Department of Insurance approved the “Pay-As-You-Drive” auto insurance program. This policy allows insurers to use verified actual mileage instead of, or in addition to, an estimated mileage program. The purpose behind the regulation: To give drivers a financial incentive to drive less and to help the environment.

For years, insurers have asked drivers to estimate the number of miles they drive annually. However, it was found that some motorists underestimated the mileage and others overestimated it.

During tough economic times, drivers find creative ways to save money. Some simply drive less. And there's a new breed of driver that looks to make money by sharing a car with others.

The trend of personal car sharing is gaining momentum across the country. Dubbed “personal vehicle sharing” or “peer-to-peer” car sharing, it ranges from eco- sensitive drivers looking to lessen their carbon footprint to cost-conscious car owners looking to save money.

California drivers spend a lot of time on the road. But whether for work or fun, if you are involved in an accident, there is a chance you could be charged for emergency services.

In California, accident response fees are a growing trend, often among cash-strapped communities looking to cover budget shortfalls due in large part to the loss of property and sales tax revenue.

View the 'Crash Tax Tracker' (Mac/PC)