When you get into an accident, you may discover that the other driver does not have an insurance policy.
At first, it may seem like you have no options to pursue the compensation you need to recover, but that might not be the case.
Here’s what you should do if you get hit by an uninsured driver in California and how our attorneys may be able to help.
What Is the Definition of an Uninsured California Driver?
In California, an uninsured driver is someone who operates a vehicle without the state’s required auto insurance coverage. This means they do not have liability insurance to cover damages or injuries they may cause in an accident.
What Are California’s Car Insurance Requirements?
According to California Insurance Code § 11580.1(b), all drivers must carry liability insurance with the following minimums:
- $15,000 for the injury or death of one person,
- $30,000 for the injury or death of more than one person, and
- $5,000 for property damage.
This requirement applies to drivers who do not apply for self-insurance. In some cases, a driver may have proof of insurance in the form of a $35,000 deposit with the DMV or a self-insurance certificate.
However, this is quite rare, and most drivers opt for a liability insurance policy instead.
How Many California Drivers Have No Insurance?
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), approximately 17% of drivers in California are uninsured. This poses a unique challenge for those involved in accidents with uninsured motorists, as securing compensation for damages and injuries becomes significantly more complex.
Without insurance coverage, these drivers often lack the resources to pay for the costs incurred from an accident. This is why it’s essential to consider the benefits of uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect yourself in such scenarios.
How Can I Recover Damages In a Car Accident with No Insurance in California?
If you happen to get into an accident with a driver who has no insurance, your options for pursuing compensation may be limited.
This is why California encourages drivers to enroll in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. While it’s not required by law, it’s included in all insurance policies unless you sign a waiver refusing coverage.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage allows you to claim damages with your own insurance company if you get hit by an uninsured driver in California.
This includes compensation for injuries to you and any passenger in your vehicle as well as damage to your vehicle.
Currently, this coverage pays for injuries up to your policy limit and vehicle damages up to $3,500.
Recent Car Accident Settlement
The Case: Our client was involved in a T-bone accident in which a 17-year-old driver ran a stop sign. A well-known firm that advertises on buses, billboards, radios, and TV Stations decided that our client did not have a winnable case after representing him for 5 months. They dropped his case and he came to us. Within 7 months, we were able to settle with the insurance company for the full policy limits of $250,000 plus a personal contribution from the other party of $3,000 for a total settlement of $253,000.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that testimonials or reviews do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter, as the facts and circumstances of each case differ.
What Should I Do If Hit by an Uninsured Driver in California?
If an uninsured California driver causes your accident, the process afterward is similar to a standard crash.
First, make sure you are safe and get checked for injuries by EMTs or a doctor. The sooner you get checked, the better.
Second, try to collect as much evidence at the scene as possible. Take pictures of your injuries, vehicle damage, and any adverse road conditions. You may also gather contact information from potential witnesses.
Finally, once you receive treatment and collect your evidence, call one of our car accident attorneys.
Since the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, pursuing compensation is much more complicated than in a standard accident case.
We’ll help determine the best legal avenue for you based on your needs.
Hit by an Uninsured Driver? Call Weinberg Law Offices Today
When you get hit by an uninsured driver in California, it may seem like you have no options. However, there may be strategies for pursuing compensation that aren’t immediately known.
At Weinberg Law Offices, our goal is to empower our clients and present all of their options. From day one, we’ll manage every aspect of your case and consistently communicate with you.
To schedule a consultation, please call us at 818-697-1079 or contact us online.
Disclaimer: This content should not be construed as legal advice.
As a personal injury attorney, my mantra is that there is no such thing as a “small case”. I will give 100% matter how big or small a case may be. I am fluent in English, Hebrew, and Spanish, languages which I use regularly in my practice.
Loading...