Protect You And your family

How do I still get reimbursed for damages when I’m involved in an accident with an underinsured motorist?

If the other driver doesn’t have enough liability coverage to pay for the damages you incurred as a result of the car crash, there are still ways you can protect yourself financially. In any situation, it is always wise to prepare for the worst before an accident happens. You can do this by making sure that your own policy has an underinsured motorist policy or an uninsured motorist policy. While it’s legally required to have auto insurance in California, there are some drivers who may be driving without any liability coverage.

Talk to your car insurance broker to find out if your policy also includes underinsured or uninsured motorists. It is always best to prepare for this type of accident because if your policy does not include underinsured motorists, you will likely have to pay for the damages out-of-pocket.

What is the difference between uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?

 Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages are very similar, but break down into two different types: bodily injury and property damage. Like the name implies, bodily injury coverage provides for medical expenses and injuries that the drivers or passengers involved in the accidents suffered from. Property damage coverage pays for any damage caused to the car or property that was damaged as a result of the car crash.

Does my state require uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage?

While California does require you to have car insurance, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages are not legally mandated. You will be offered this coverage under your policy but you are not required to purchase it. However, it is always best to prepare for any type of situation, and you will not regret obtaining this coverage in the case that you are in an accident with someone who does not have enough liability coverage to pay for your damages or bodily injury.

If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, it is also in your best interest to talk to a personal injury lawyer who can help you with the legalities of the case. You could be eligible for benefits and compensation from the insurance company, and a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the process with no extra cost to you. It is always best to protect yourself financially and in every way possible in the case of an accident.