Hit by an Uninsured Driver in California? Your Own Policy May Help
Being injured by a careless driver is hard enough. Learning that the driver had no insurance, or far too little, can make the situation feel hopeless.
It is a common problem on California roads. Many drivers carry no insurance, and many who do carry only the legal minimum. As of January 1, 2025, that minimum is $30,000 for injury to one person and $60,000 per accident. A serious injury can exceed those limits quickly.
When the at-fault driver cannot cover your harms and losses, there may still be a source of compensation in your own auto policy. It is called uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. If you have been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver in California, our experienced California personal injury lawyer can help. Call us today for a free case evaluation.
What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver had no liability insurance, including in many hit-and-run cases where the driver flees and is never identified.
Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver had insurance, but the policy limits were too low to cover your injuries and losses. This coverage can help make up the difference, up to the limits you purchased.
In California, insurers must offer this coverage with every auto policy. You only go without it if you signed a written waiver declining it. For this reason, many people have this protection without realizing it. However, many people carry lower UM/UIM limits than their liability limits, which can leave them underprotected. These limits are what protect you and your loved ones. Make sure your UM/UIM limits match your liability limits, as it often costs only a few more dollars.
Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim in California
When you file this kind of claim, you are making it against your own insurance company, not the other driver’s. Even though you have paid your premiums faithfully, your insurer’s interest is to pay as little as possible. It may question your injuries, dispute your treatment, or offer a low settlement early.
There are also strict deadlines for filing. Reporting the accident promptly, keeping records of your medical care and lost income, and speaking with an attorney before giving a recorded statement can all help protect your claim.
What To Do If You Have Been Injured by an Uninsured Driver in California
If you or a loved one was injured by an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver in California, contact our law firm as soon as possible at (562) 901-4664 or visit our contact page to arrange a free consultation.
We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us no fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf. This can be very helpful especially if you have been seriously injured and cannot work or afford an attorney.
