In California, driving without auto insurance is against the law, but unfortunately, not all drivers abide by it. If you’re involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, you could be left in a difficult situation. The at-fault driver may flee the scene or be unable to pay for the damages. However, there are still ways to recover compensation for your losses. If you’ve been in a severe car crash involving a commercial vehicle in Palmdale-Lancaster, click here to reach out to a committed auto accident injury attorney for guidance and support.
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Uninsured motorist:
Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) insurance are additional coverage options offered by California auto insurance providers. It is not mandatory to have UM/UIM coverage, but it is highly recommended. For a relatively low cost of $50-$75 per year, this coverage protects policyholders from uninsured or underinsured drivers. UM/UIM coverage is a first-party claim, meaning you file under your own insurance policy. In the event of an accident, your medical costs and property damage are covered, up to your policy limits.
When to Use UM/UIM Coverage:
UM/UIM coverage is particularly useful when you are involved in an accident that was not your fault and the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. This coverage also applies in hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Although you can still sue the at-fault driver for damages, if they do not carry the minimum amount of insurance required by law, it’s unlikely they will be able to pay for your damages. We recommend maintaining the same level of UM/UIM coverage as you carry in liability coverage, with at least 50/100 coverage for bodily injury.
Protect Yourself with UM/UIM Coverage:
Protect yourself in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver by purchasing UM/UIM coverage. By taking on this additional coverage, you can ensure that your medical costs and property damage are covered, up to your policy limits. Talk to your insurance provider about adding UM/UIM coverage to your auto insurance policy today.
Health Insurance Coverage:
Even though it might be more difficult and costly than using your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy, if you have been in an accident with an uninsured driver, you can also submit a claim with your health insurance company to pay for medical expenses.
Final thoughts:
Get in touch with a car accident injury lawyer to assess your individual auto accident case. With so many possible reasons behind car accidents, each case is unique, and an experienced attorney can help you understand the specific details of your claim.
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