As an attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how frustrating it can be to deal with an uninsured or underinsured driver after an accident. You expect the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover your damages, but what happens when they don’t have coverage—or not enough of it?
That’s where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage steps in. In our previous blog, we covered what UM/UIM insurance is and why it’s valuable. Here, we’re providing a simple, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and get the compensation you deserve.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Report the Accident
First, make sure everyone is okay and if anyone is injured, at all… call 911 if anyone needs medical attention. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, damage, visible injuries, and anything else that might be relevant. If possible, get the other driver’s contact and insurance details. If they fled the scene (hit-and-run), don’t worry—your UM coverage should still apply. Finally, be sure to file a police report – This is crucial for your UM/UIM claim. A police report officially documents what happened, making it harder for the insurance company to deny your claim.
Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Company
It’s very important that you call your insurer and let them know you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. You’ll be asked to submit the police report, photos, medical records, and witness statements to strengthen your claim. While you’re on the call, this is a good time to double-check your UM/UIM policy limits so you know how much coverage you have.
Step 3: File Your UM/UIM Claim
Your UM/UIM coverage will only pay up to your policy limit. If your medical bills and damages exceed that amount, you may need to explore other options. In addition, you will want to keep track of all medical treatments and expenses related to the accident—doctor visits, prescriptions, therapy, and lost wages. If your UM/UIM policy includes property damage, get repair estimates for your car. Some policies only cover bodily injury, so check your policy details.
Step 4: Work With Your Insurance Adjuster
Your insurance adjuster will investigate the accident and may request more information. Provide everything they need quickly to avoid delays. The insurance company will, typically, offer a settlement based on your policy and damages. If it’s fair, you can accept and move forward. If for some reason your insurer lowballs your settlement or denies your claim, you do not have to settle for less than you deserve. An attorney can help you fight for fair compensation.
Step 5: Finalizing Your Claim
In the final stage, if both parties agree, the claim is finalized, and you’ll receive your payout. If your claim is denied, review the denial letter carefully. You may need to challenge the decision with additional evidence or legal help.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
Many insurance companies have strict deadlines for filing a UM/UIM claim. Don’t wait! Some policies have restrictions, such as requiring physical contact with the uninsured driver’s vehicle. Read your policy carefully.
Final Thoughts
Having UM/UIM insurance is like having a safety net—you hope you never need it, but if an uninsured or underinsured driver hits you, you’ll be glad it’s there. The claims process can feel overwhelming, but with the right documentation and persistence, you can recover the compensation you deserve. And if your insurance company isn’t playing fair, don’t hesitate to get legal help. Your financial and physical recovery shouldn’t be up for debate.
If you’ve been involved in a dog bite incident—either as a victim or a pet owner—consulting with a legal professional can provide the clarity and support you need. This blog post is written by an attorney at The Law Office of Diane Chang, A Professional Corporation. It is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or a solicitation for services. We hope it helps you or empowers you to seek next steps in your legal matters. Our attorneys handle an array of personal injury matters throughout California. You can contact us at www.dianechanglaw.com or (213) 814 0535.