Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists
When drivers decide not to carry automobile insurance they place more than just themselves at risk. They may be involved in an accident that injures another person and damages property to no financial recourse available. Luckily, individuals who are victims of car accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists have the ability to carry coverage on their own policy that will provide financial support in such an event. If you have been involved in such an accident you need to consult an experienced San Diego motor vehicle accident attorney to explain your rights and answer any questions you have about your situation.
Uninsured Motorists
Even in a state such as California, that requires all motorists to carry vehicle insurance, you may still be injured by an uninsured motorist. You may even experience a hit-an-run accident, in which case very often you will not be able to identify the other driver.
In these cases uninsured motorist coverage can help you recover damage to help pay for medical bills and property damage. Most Californian’s are covered by their own insurance policies when involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist. When this is the case, the victim’s insurance company is legally required to provide damages as if it were the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.
To ensure that your interests are protected you should hire an experience auto accident lawyer before filing an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company.
Underinsured Motorists
It is estimated that 20% of California drivers carry the absolute minimum for auto insurance coverage. In cases of major accidents with serious injuries, motorists who have minimal insurance coverage may not be able to fully compensate victims of automobile accidents. If you have underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance company can pay for the different when damages exceed that underinsured driver’s coverage.
Collecting Insurance Benefits
In order to collect money from your insurance company under your uninsured or underinsured policy, the victim will need to show that another driver was at fault. In addition, injuries will need to be shown to be significant. If you are attempting to collect benefits based on underinsured motorist coverage you will need to collect the maximum amount from the underinsured motorist first.
Stacking Insurance Coverage
In some instances and under certain insurance policies the injured party may “stack” different policies to reach a satisfactory level of recovered damages. Stacking coverage’s from more than one policy may allow a victim to increase their monetary compensation. Stacking coverage is not allowed in all case to it is important to consult with an experienced auto accident attorney before filing your claim
Contact an Attorney
Uninsured and underinsured motorists account for up to 40% of all drivers on the road in California. It is important to have an insurance policy that can protect you when you are involved with such a driver. Issues of who is at fault and how much compensation you deserve become extremely important when filing an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim. It is important that you contact a San Diego automobile accident lawyer for your free consultation today. The Law Office of Howard Alan Kitay serves all of San Diego County and there are no fees until you collect your settlement.
- Overview
- Frequently asked questions
- What to do if you are in an accident
- Injuries and Compensation
- Insurance Do's and Dont's
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
