Few Californians have earthquake insurance

A suspiciously well-timed study released today shows that only 12 percent of California has earthquake insurance, down from 30 percent at the time of the 1994 Northridge quake.

The explanation:

Candysee Miller, executive director for the Insurance Information Network of California, said the absence of a major quake over the past decade was partially to blame.

By that logic, there should be many people signing up for earthquake insurance this week. Especially, with a study that just happened to be released today getting media coverage and reminding them to sign up for insurance.

Also, a related 2006 study showed that 31 percent of people think they have insurance, when in reality only 13 percent did.