If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by an uninsured motorist in Riverside, California, you have legal rights to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. However, navigating the insurance and legal process can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a legal background.
That’s where an experienced uninsured motorist accident lawyer can help. At the JLF Firm, we know what to do if an uninsured driver hits you, and how our car accident attorneys in Riverside can assist you building a strong case for compensation. Contact us now to begin.
California Car Insurance Requirements
Driving without insurance in California is illegal and can result in hefty fines, license suspension, and even impounding of the vehicle. In addition, if you’re involved in an accident and found to be at fault without insurance, you may be personally liable for damages and injuries caused in the accident.
In California, all drivers must carry minimum liability insurance coverage to protect other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians in the event of an accident. Liability insurance covers the damages you cause to others and their property while driving. The minimum liability insurance requirements in California are:
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person
- $30,000 for injury/death to multiple people
- $5,000 for property damage
California also requires uninsured motorist coverage (UM) and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) to protect drivers in case an uninsured or underinsured driver hits them. UM coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if you are injured by an uninsured driver, while UIM coverage covers damages if the at-fault driver’s liability limits are not enough to cover your damages.
What Happens If the Other Driver is Uninsured?
If you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver in California, you may still be able to recover damages for your injuries and property damage. However, it can be more challenging to do so than if the other driver had insurance coverage. Here are some options you may have if the other driver is uninsured:
Uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) coverage
UMBI is an optional insurance coverage that provides protection if you or your passengers are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
UMBI coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you and your passengers may incur due to the accident. It also covers pain and suffering and other non-economic damages not covered by liability insurance.
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program, a government-funded health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. The program provides various healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, and mental health services. The program also covers dental, vision, and long-term care for seniors and people with disabilities.
To qualify for Medi-Cal, you must meet certain income and eligibility requirements. Eligibility is based on the size of your household, income, and other factors such as age, disability, and pregnancy.
Can You Sue an Uninsured Motorist?
If an uninsured driver has injured you, you can file a lawsuit against the driver to recover compensation for your damages. However, suing an uninsured driver can be challenging because they may not have the financial resources to pay a judgment.
An experienced car accident attorney can help you explore your legal options and determine the best course of action.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help?
Hiring a car accident attorney can help you obtain a fair settlement for your damages and protect your legal rights. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help protect your legal rights and interests. Here are some of the ways a car accident attorney can assist you:
- Evaluate your case: A car accident attorney can evaluate your case to determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. They can review the details of your accident, including the police report, witness statements, and medical records, to assess the strength of your case and identify potential legal issues.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: A car accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to help you obtain a fair settlement for your damages. Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay in claims, but an experienced attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to under the law.
- Represent you in court: If your case goes to court, a car accident attorney can represent you and argue your case before a judge or jury. They can present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments on your behalf to help you obtain a favorable outcome.
- Help you understand your legal rights: A car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options for recovering damages. They can explain the different types of insurance coverage available, such as uninsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection, and help you navigate the complex legal system to protect your rights.
- Provide guidance and support: A car accident attorney can provide you with guidance and support throughout the legal process. They can answer your questions, keep you updated on the progress of your case, and help you make informed decisions about your case.
Contact Our JLF Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been involved in a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist in Riverside, California, it’s important to know your legal rights and options for recovering damages. An experienced uninsured motorist accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system and obtain the compensation you deserve.
From evaluating your case and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court and providing guidance and support throughout the legal process, our Riverside car crash attorney can be an invaluable resource for anyone involved in an uninsured motorist accident.
Contact the trusted and experienced Riverside uninsured motorist accident lawyers at The JLF Firm today.
Uninsured Motorist Case FAQs
What should I do if I’m hit by an uninsured driver in California?
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver in California, you should immediately report the accident to the police and your insurance company. You should also seek medical attention and gather as much information about the other driver as possible, such as their name, contact information, and license plate number.
Can I still sue an uninsured driver for damages in California?
Yes, you can still sue an uninsured driver for damages in California. However, collecting a judgment can be difficult if you do not have a lawyer by your side to prepare you for trial, or negotiate for a potential settlement out of court.
