Every driver in the State of California should be aware that state law mandates all drivers to maintain a minimum amount of auto insurance. Having a valid insurance policy will help ensure a driver covers potential losses should they cause an automobile accident. Even as the law is strictly enforced, there are a significant number of automobile drivers in the state who neglect to carry an auto insurance policy. In some instances, they do not carry enough insurance. Here’s what you should consider when involved in an auto accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in California.
State of California Auto Insurance Laws
In effort of protecting the interests of all those on the road, the State of California requires all drivers to maintain the following minimum auto insurance coverage:
- $15,000 in coverage for bodily injury, per person
- $30,000 in coverage for bodily injury to multiple people, per accident
- $5,000 in coverage for property damage
Any person who is found to be driving without the minimum insurance coverage faces serious penalties, which includes getting arrested and having his or her driving privileges suspended.
Accidents Involving Uninsured Motorists
Most drivers who choose to drive without insurance believe they will never get in an accident. When an accident does happen, however, this not only places them at risk of serious penalties, but they can also cause serious financial distress to those they have injured.
If you have been injured in an accident, the motorist who caused your accident should be held liable for your damages, which may include the following:
- Medical costs,
- Loss of financial earnings,
- Pain and suffering, and
- Long-term or permanent injuries
If you were involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you have the option to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. It is important to recognize, however, that most drivers who are unable to pay an insurance premium are not going to have the assets available to cover the judgment.
Instead, there may be another option available to you. Depending on your own insurance coverage, your policy may cover accidents caused by uninsured motorists.
Underinsured Motorist Accidents in California
Although the State of California mandates a minimum amount of auto insurance coverage, this bare minimum is sometimes not enough to cover the victim’s expenses. If you are involved in an accident where you sustained serious injuries, there is a probability that you may require long-term medical assistance. A minimum auto insurance coverage will not be sufficient to cover your mounting medical expenses. Fortunately, you may be able to recover from your losses by filing a claim against your own insurance policy if you opted for underinsured motorist coverage.
Injured in an Accident? Speak to an Attorney Today
The State of California recognizes that drivers can leave victims vulnerable after an accident because of inadequate automobile insurance coverage. As a result, the State of California requires insurance companies to offer their customers with policies for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
Unfortunately, having these coverages does not automatically entail receiving compensation following an accident. Insurance companies rarely work in favor of their own policyholders, and filing a claim against one’s own policy can result in a lowballed settlement or coverage denial.
If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, it is in your best interest to act quickly and seek the legal advice of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney. The attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation are exceptionally qualified in the field of personal injury lawsuits. Having handled some of the most complex auto accident claims, the firm is equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to help their clients obtain the maximum amount of monetary restitution available. After an accident, consider contacting the firm today for a free case evaluation.
