How to Handle Uninsured Motorist Claims in California
California state law requires all licensed drivers to maintain automobile insurance policies with minimum limits of $15,000 for death or injury of any one person, $30,000 for death or injury of more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage. Some drivers maintain absolute minimum coverage that does not provide victims all of the compensation they need, while other motorists fail to maintain any insurance whatsoever.
The good news for many victims is that they are frequently able to file claims with their own insurance companies when a negligent driver was uninsured or underinsured. Nonetheless, you should make sure that you have legal representation before filing your claim.
Insurance companies will push victims to quickly accept proposed settlements that are often much less than what the victims are actually entitled to. In most cases, the settlement amounts do not provide sufficient recourse for the full lifetime of care required, and victims can be powerless to obtain additional damages after agreeing to these settlements.
The Los Angeles Injury Group represents car accident victims all over Southern California. You can have our Los Angeles personal injury attorney review your case and answer all of your legal questions as soon as you call (310) 954-7248 to schedule a free consultation.
Dealing With Your Own Insurance Company
For many people, there is an immediate temptation to avoid contacting a lawyer following an accident with an uninsured motorist because many victims believe they will be dealing strictly with their own insurance companies. Some individuals mistakenly believe that because they are regular paying customers, their insurers will automatically be on their sides.
In truth, all insurance companies are businesses. Their only commitment is to their bottom line.
As a result, insurers may refuse to fully compensate victims for injuries clearly caused by another party’s negligence. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to question the severity of injuries, or possibly even accuse their own policyholder of being at fault for the accident.
Lawsuits Against Negligent Drivers
When a negligent driver does not have automobile insurance, it may be possible for the victim to file a lawsuit against that person. Unfortunately, it is incredibly common for most uninsured drivers to essentially lack the assets that would justify such a lawsuit.
As a result, the victim’s insurance company often remains the best bet for recovering compensation necessary for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced attorney can negotiate with an insurer on your behalf and can file a lawsuit against the insurance company if it is unwilling to provide adequate compensation.
Uninsured Accident Lawyer in California
If you sustained serious injuries or your loved one was killed in an automobile accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist in Southern California, it will be in your best interest to quickly seek legal representation. You will want to contact the Los Angeles Injury Group as soon as possible.
Our experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney can provide a complete evaluation of your case when you call (310) 954-7248 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.