Los Angeles Uninsured Accident Attorney
Getting into an auto accident in Los Angeles, California is distressing enough on its own. If you find out that the other driver is uninsured, it can make the recovery process even more difficult. If the other driver does not have car insurance, you may need a Los Angeles uninsured accident attorney to help you with the claims process.
The Ryan Law Group can guide you toward the best possible case outcome. We have spent years representing individuals and families throughout the state. Our attorneys are passionate about holding careless parties accountable for their actions, including driving without insurance. Contact us today to begin your case with a free consultation at our local law office in Southern California.
What are California’s Insurance Requirements?
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle without first purchasing the minimum required amounts of automobile insurance in the State of California. Every driver in the state must show proof of financial responsibility in the amount of $15,000 in bodily injury liability insurance per person, $30,000 in bodily injury insurance per accident and $5,000 in property damage insurance. Unfortunately, hundreds of drivers in California break the law and drive with less than the required amounts of insurance, or no coverage at all.
Who Pays if the Other Driver is Uninsured?
If you get into a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in California, your claim will not look the same as a typical car accident insurance claim. California is a fault-based state, meaning the person who causes your collision has to pay for related medical bills and property damage.
If the driver who caused your crash does not have insurance, this can make it more challenging to receive the amount of financial compensation you deserve. However, one of three recovery outlets may be available to you after an uninsured driver accident.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Insurance
Although it is not a required type of insurance in California, uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance can be useful to purchase, as it will cover your losses after an accident involving an uninsured motorist. If you have this type of insurance, file a first-party claim seeking financial damages from your own provider.
The Driver (Out of Pocket)
The at-fault driver may still be financially responsible for your losses if he or she caused the crash. Without insurance, the driver may have to pay for your related expenses out of pocket. If the driver cannot afford to pay, and this is common with drivers who choose to drive uninsured; he or she may declare bankruptcy and leave you without a source of financial recovery.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
A car accident attorney can investigate your crash for signs of third-party liability. If an outside source caused or contributed to the crash, such as the government for an unsafe roadway, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that party’s insurance provider for monetary recovery.
What to Do After an Uninsured Driver Accident
If you get into a car accident with an uninsured driver in California, call the police to report the crash. The police can cite the driver for failing to have proof of financial responsibility. Go to the hospital immediately for any crash-related injury care you require. Call your own auto insurance company to make an initial report of the crash. Then, before proceeding further with an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, consult with an attorney near you for information about your rights.
Contact a Los Angeles Uninsured Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident with an uninsured driver in Los Angeles, don’t hesitate to contact The Ryan Law Group. We offer free initial consultations, where we will ask you questions about what happened and give you legal advice at no cost or obligation. Contact us online or call (310) 299-9550 anytime to request your case review.