What Happens After an Uninsured Driver Hits You in California
- Almost one out of every five drivers in California does not carry insurance.
- California law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance.When an uninsured driver causes an accident, recovering damages can be complex.
- If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic.
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what to Do When an Uninsured Driver Hits You in California
Almost one out of every five drivers in California does not carry insurance. This means a significant number of people are driving without the financial protection insurance provides. An accident involving an uninsured driver can be incredibly stressful. However, knowing what steps to take can reduce that stress and give you more control over the situation. Key actions include reporting the accident, understanding your insurance options (including self-insurance), reviewing your own policy, and considering legal recourse.These proactive measures can substantially benefit you in the long run.
What Happens When an Uninsured Driver Hits You?
California law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance.When an uninsured driver causes an accident, recovering damages can be complex. Unlike a collision with a properly insured driver, you won’t be dealing directly with their insurance company. Instead, you’ll need to rely on your own insurance policy or pursue other avenues for compensation. The specific steps you take will depend on the extent of your damages (vehicle repair costs, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering) and the details of your insurance coverage.
Assessing the accident Scene
The immediate priority after any accident is safety. If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic. Exercise extreme caution while doing so to avoid further injury. Once everyone is safe,begin gathering critical information. Obtain the other driver’s name, address, and license plate number. Crucially, document the scene thoroughly. Take clear photographs of the vehicles involved, showing the damage from multiple angles. Also, photograph any relevant road conditions, traffic signals, or visible obstructions.
Crucial: Always report the accident to the police. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which will be invaluable when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. The police report will typically include details about the accident, witness statements, and a determination of fault (though fault determination is ultimately a legal matter).
Understanding insurance Coverage
California requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage of 15/30/5.This means:
| Coverage type | Amount | What it Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability (per person) | $15,000 | Injuries to one person in an accident you cause. |
| Bodily Injury Liability (per accident) | $30,000 | Total injuries to multiple people in an accident you cause. |
| Property Damage Liability | $5,000 | Damage to another person’s property in an accident you cause. |
However, many drivers opt for higher coverage limits or additional types of insurance. Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle regardless of fault,while Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is specifically designed to protect you when hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.