Understanding Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Insurance in California

As a personal injury law firm in Los Angeles, we see many cases where drivers and passengers suffer significant losses due to accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists. With the number of vehicles on the road and California’s relatively low minimum insurance requirements, it’s crucial to understand how Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage can protect you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance.

California Insurance Requirements

California law requires that all vehicles operated or parked on public roads must have insurance. Here are the current minimum liability insurance requirements (set to increase on January 1, 2025):

•               $15,000 for injury/death to one person

•               $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person

•               $5,000 for property damage

These minimums are designed to compensate people other than the policyholder for injury or property damage in the event of an accident. However, as we often see, these amounts may be insufficient for serious accidents involving significant medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

For more details on California insurance requirements, you can visit the DMV Insurance Requirements page.

What Is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance?

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance provides coverage when you are hit by a driver who does not have auto insurance. Even though California law requires all drivers to carry insurance, many people still drive without it. UM insurance steps in to cover your costs, including:

•               Medical expenses

•               Lost wages

•               Pain and suffering

UM coverage can also apply in hit-and-run accidents, which are unfortunately common in large urban areas like Los Angeles.

What Is Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Insurance?

Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Insurance is designed for situations where the at-fault driver has insurance, but their coverage limits are too low to cover your full expenses. California’s minimum coverage often doesn’t fully compensate for serious injuries or property damage.

For example, if the other driver only has $15,000 in bodily injury coverage but your medical bills are $50,000, UIM can help make up the difference by paying the remaining amount, up to the limits of your UIM policy.

Why UM and UIM Coverage Are Essential

Given the frequency of accidents in Los Angeles and the number of uninsured or underinsured drivers, having UM and UIM coverage is essential. Without this coverage, you could be forced to pay out-of-pocket for your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.

California’s low insurance minimums often mean that basic liability insurance doesn’t cover all the costs of a serious accident. Having UM and UIM coverage ensures you are protected from these financial risks.

Steps to Take After an Accident With an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist

If you’re involved in an accident with a driver who is uninsured or underinsured, follow these steps to protect yourself:

1.              Stay Calm and Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If needed, call for medical help immediately.

2.              Move to a Safe Area: If your vehicle is still operable, move it to the side of the road to prevent additional accidents.

3.              Call 911: Report the accident to the police, and ensure there is an official police report, which will be essential for any insurance claims.

4.              Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent.

5.              Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any injuries. This documentation will be critical when filing a claim.

6.              Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s contact and insurance information. If they are uninsured or underinsured, this will help your insurance company process your claim.

7.              Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider and inquire about your UM/UIM coverage. This ensures that the claim process begins quickly.

8.              Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: If the other driver’s insurance is insufficient, an attorney can help you explore additional options for compensation and ensure that you maximize your UM/UIM benefits.

Protecting Yourself in Los Angeles

With traffic congestion and a high number of uninsured drivers in Los Angeles, it’s vital to ensure that you’re properly covered in the event of an accident. UM and UIM insurance provide an essential safety net, protecting you from unexpected financial burdens caused by another driver’s lack of adequate coverage.

If you’re unsure about your coverage or have been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, contact our firm. We can help guide you through the process, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

For more information on California’s insurance requirements, you can visit the DMV’s Insurance Requirements page.