Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Attorney in Sacramento

When you’re in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek compensation for the damages and injuries you suffer. However, when the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured, you may have difficulty recovering the damages you incur from the accident. The hospital fees, medical expenses, and other financial losses you sustain after a harmful accident can put you and your loved ones in a difficult situation.

If you find yourself in a situation like this, contact a California uninsured/underinsured motorist attorney at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp. Our team can discuss your claim and help you understand your options. There are many ways you can still have the opportunity to receive compensation for your losses but without the assistance of a dependable attorney, you may not receive the settlement you deserve.

Uninsured vs. Underinsured: What’s the Difference?

In the state of California, drivers and vehicle owners are required to have a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage. When residents drive without insurance or with insurance that does not cover the cost of an accident, they are categorized as uninsured or underinsured. If you’re in an accident with one of the following, there are some important distinguishing factors you’ll need to understand:

Uninsured

Drivers that have less insurance than their state mandates for residents or have insurance with a company that will not or cannot pay the claim are called uninsured drivers. An example of this is if a person does not carry any insurance for their vehicle. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, you’ll file one claim with your insurance through your coverage. However, if you opt out of uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll need to discuss your other options with a lawyer.

Underinsured

When a person has insurance but not enough to cover the accident, they are considered underinsured. Often, underinsured drivers only have a certain amount and won’t be able to cover your hospital bills or property damage. When this occurs, you’ll need to file two claims — one with the other driver, and one against your own insurer. Talking with and getting advice from your lawyer about what information you need is a great way to prepare yourself and feel confident about your claim.

The Minimum Insurance Requirements for Drivers in California

For residents of California and all drivers on the road, there is a minimum amount of auto insurance that each person must hold. This is to ensure that drivers have the necessary coverage for accidents. However, the Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that around 16.6% of drivers on the road in 2019 were uninsured.

California’s minimum liability coverage in California is:

  • $15,000 to cover the injury or death of a single person
  • $30,000 to cover the injury or death involving more than one person per accident
  • $5,000 to cover property damage

Understanding these requirements can help you combat insurance issues. California is among the top ten highest percentage of uninsured drivers in the United States, and there are concerns for the safety of residents and individuals on the road. Discuss your options and requirements with an uninsured/underinsured lawyer to understand more about the process and information you need to gather for a smooth accident claim.

Why Should You Have California Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

There are car insurance coverage types that help with accidents involving uninsured or underinsured accidents. The two main types of coverage are uninsured motorist coverage (UM) and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). These two types of coverage pay for the damages you and your passengers sustain during an accident with any of the following individuals:

  • Someone who doesn’t carry any liability car insurance
  • Someone with an insurance company that denies coverage or goes out of business
  • Someone whose liability insurance doesn’t cover your medical bills

Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can help recover:

  • Current and future medical bills
  • Lost wages or income from the accident
  • Property damage coverage
  • Pain and suffering compensation
  • Funeral expenses

In California, insurance companies must offer uninsured coverage. However, people may choose to opt out of the coverage by signing a waiver. While it may save you a bit of money here and there, if you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be at risk of losing compensation for your losses.

Contact Eric Ratinoff Law Corp. for an Experienced Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Lawyer

Accidents are dangerous and often leave individuals with severe, life-threatening injuries and property damage. From treatment and physical therapy fees to vehicle repair, the losses you can suffer after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured individual can significantly impact your life and those around you. When you’re in an unfortunate situation such as this, finding a car accident lawyer who you can depend on, and trust is vital to your claim. Attorney Eric J. Ratinoff has years of experience working with clients across California. He and his team are dedicated to providing reliable, client-oriented legal representation. With positive past results and testimonials, you can trust that your claim is in the right hands. Call (916) 970-9100 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.