Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorneys in Lancaster, CA

Serving Antelope Valley for 30+ Years

In the state of California, all drivers are required to have car insurance in order to legally drive. The unfortunate reality is that despite that mandate, many drivers still choose to drive without insurance. When one of them causes an accident that results in property damage or personal injury, things can quickly get complicated. Ultimately, the victim of the crash will have to rely on their own uninsured / underinsured motorist insurance policy if the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage, or doesn't have any coverage at all.

Injured by an uninsured driver? Contact us now at (661) 261-4929 for a free consultation and learn how we can help you recover compensation.

Do I Really Need Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

If you have ever purchased car insurance in California, you likely had a “fun” time going over the mandatory liability minimums each driver needs to buy in order to legally drive.

California uses a 15/30/5 minimum, which means:

• $15,000 coverage for injury or death to one person
• $30,000 coverage for injury or death to more than one person
• $5,000 in property damage (vehicles or otherwise)

But the legal necessities are not the only types of insurance available to you, and they really aren’t the only kinds you should buy. In particular, you may have noticed an option to purchase uninsured and underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage. Since it is only optional, you probably don’t need it, right?

Here’s three reasons why that assumption might be wrong:

1. Faster resolution: If you get in a car accident with a driver who has no car insurance, and you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, the only way you can get compensation is through a personal injury claim. While this is better than having no options at all, if you had purchased uninsured motorist coverage, you could get your money faster if your coverage amount actually met all of your damage requirements. Furthermore, personal injury claims filed by plaintiffs who have UM/UIM coverage – which would be the case if your damages exceeded what your coverage offers – tend to see their cases close in a lesser amount of time.
2. Excess expenses: An insured driver that hits you but cannot cover all of your necessary medical bills and repair costs with their insurance policy is technically an underinsured motorist. With UIM insurance on your policy, you can gain the maximum amount allowed by the liable party’s insurance and the excess remaining through your own. Essentially, there is less of a chance that you will be left without the coverage you require.
3. Hit-and-runs: When you are unable to collect identifying or insurance information from the other driver before they leave the scene of the accident, it is a hit-and-run. What you may not have realized is that uninsured motorist coverage will take care of you during a hit-and-run accident, even if that means you came back to your car after shopping to find that someone put a dent in your bumper.

There are numerous reasons why you should probably talk to your insurer about getting UM/UIM motorist coverage added onto your policy. It is not, however, the only way to seek compensation and damages after a car accident. An injury claim may be your best option in some cases, regardless of the type of insurance you own.

Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

Getting into an accident with an uninsured driver can be stressful, but taking the right steps can help protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

• What to Do Immediately After the Crash
  • Check for injuries – Make sure you and your passengers are safe. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
  • Call the police – A police report is crucial when dealing with an uninsured driver. It will help your insurance claim.
  • Do not accept cash offers – Some uninsured drivers may try to pay you on the spot. Avoid this, as you may have hidden injuries or damages that cost more than you think.
• How to Document the Accident Properly
  • Take pictures and videos – Capture damage to all vehicles, the accident scene, road signs, and any visible injuries.
  • Get witness statements – If someone saw the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement.
  • Exchange information – Even if the other driver is uninsured, get their name, contact info, and driver’s license number.
• When to Contact an Attorney
  • If the uninsured driver refuses to take responsibility.
  • If your insurance company delays or denies your claim.
  • If you have serious injuries and need help getting full compensation.

How to File an Uninsured Motorist Claim

Filing an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company can help cover your medical bills and car repairs.

• The Process of Filing a Claim
  • Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
  • Submit a police report to prove the accident happened.
  • Provide medical records if you were injured.
• What Evidence You Need to Support Your Claim
  • Photos and videos of the accident.
  • Statements from witnesses.
  • Medical bills and repair estimates.
• Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
  • Insurance company delays – Follow up regularly and keep detailed records.
  • Claim denial – Hire an attorney to fight back.
  • Low settlement offers – Negotiate or take legal action if necessary.

Common Injuries in Uninsured Motorist Accidents

Even minor accidents can lead to serious injuries.

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
  • Neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
  • Often caused by sudden impact.
• Broken Bones and Fractures
  • Common in high-impact crashes.
  • May require surgery or physical therapy.
• Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  • Can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
  • Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.