It only seems fair that the injured party in an auto accident receive full compensation. However, in California, about 1 in 8 drivers are uninsured, meaning if you or a loved one were injured in an accident that was caused by an uninsured driver, the at fault driver does not have insurance coverage to pay for your damages.
Not surprisingly, individuals who choose to drive without being covered — uninsured motorists — create problems for those who do follow the law and have insurance. Indeed, injured drivers won’t receive any compensation if they file a personal injury claim against an uninsured motorist.
Do no despair, however, there is hope: your own insurance coverage. If you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance, you can file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?
Ordinary car insurance covers the injuries and damages of the people and property involved in the accident. Uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage exists in the event that other driver is covered only minimally or doesn’t have any insurance.
For example, let’s say you have a $50,000 UIM policy under your name. You end up in a crash with a negligent driver who has only $20,000, or half your amount in coverage. You suffered $50,000 total in injury damages. Your recourse? You will be able to pursue $20,000 in your personal injury claim against the other driver’s coverage. The additional 
$30,000 claim will be offered as per your UIM policy from the insurance company. In the event of non-insurance coverage of the driver, you’ll only get the amount you have purchased as UIM coverage. An experienced accident attorney may be able to help you recover additional compensation.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Important
The main reason why a driver should purchase UIM coverage policy is simple—you may struggle to recover compensation for your personal injury if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured. Uninsured motorist coverage is a way to avoid steep medical costs, physical therapy bills, and related expenses that you would otherwise have to pay from your own wallet.
If you have filed an uninsured motorist claim but your insurance company refuses to compensate you, know that the law and experienced uninsured motorist attorney Barry P. Goldberg are on your side. Attorney Goldberg has helped hundred of accident victims recover the compensation their injuries deserve. Contact him today for a free, no obligation consultation.
