Under California law, all drivers must carry automobile liability insurance. However, California law does not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which could come back and harm those drivers who decline to carry such coverage. Why is it important to carry uninsured motorist coverage?]
Here are some reasons why:
Although drivers are required to carry liability insurance, there are still those who do not. So, if you get into an accident with such a driver and you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, your only option is to sue the other driver and go after his or her personal property, if there is any. Chances are if the other driver could not afford to purchase liability insurance, he or she will not have any personal property for you to go after.
Further, limits for satisfying the requirements of carrying liability insurance is very minimal. A driver only has to carry $15,000 in coverage (under some exceptions, it may be as low as $10,000). This means that if you are injured in an accident, the insurance for the other driver is limited to $15,000 which will not cover you if you are involved in a serious accident. Uninsured motorist coverage generally protects in cases of underinsured motorists as well as uninsured motorists. So, if you get into an accident with a negligent driver whose policy limits are less than your policy limit and the other driver’s policy limits are not enough to cover your losses, you can seek compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage may also provide coverage if you or a family member, as a pedestrian, are struck by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
Finally, uninsured motorist coverage applies in cases of hit-and-run accidents. If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident and have uninsured motorist coverage, report the accident immediately to your insurance company and to law enforcement personnel. Also, be sure to review your policy regarding the steps you need to take in such a scenario.
Uninsured motorist coverage is generally inexpensive, but its benefits can be invaluable. This article strictly talks about California law. Laws in other states may differ. This article is for educational purposes only and is not meant to serve as legal advice. You should always contact an attorney to discuss any legal matter.
For more information, please call The Mason Law Firm, 27240 Turnberry Lane, Suite 200 in Valencia at 661-362-0805 or email mr.law@scvlawcenter.com .