California’s roads are some of the busiest in the country and unfortunately, not every driver carries insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage helps protect you financially if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance or whose policy limits are too low to cover your costs. With car repairs and medical expenses rising fast, this coverage has become more important than ever for California drivers.
What Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage Protects
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage pays for your injuries if you’re hit by an at-fault driver who doesn’t have insurance. It typically covers you and your passengers for medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. On the other hand, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage helps when the at-fault driver’s liability insurance isn’t enough to pay for all your damages. After their insurance limits are reached, your UIM steps in to cover the remaining balance up to your own policy limits.
Imagine your medical bills total $30,000 after an accident, but the driver who hit you has no insurance at all. Assuming you carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage with limits of at least $30,000 per person, your policy would step in to help cover those costs, so you’re not left paying out of pocket for someone else’s mistake. This protection is especially important in California, where an estimated 17% of drivers in 2023 were uninsured. In urban areas, the percentage of uninsured drivers can be much higher.
How Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage Works
What about your car? In California, Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) can cover up to $3,500 in vehicle damage if the uninsured driver is identified and found at fault. If you already carry collision coverage, your insurer may instead apply a collision deductible waiver, meaning you won’t have to pay your deductible if an uninsured driver caused the crash. It’s a small detail that can save you hundreds of dollars, so it’s worth asking your insurance agent how your specific policy handles this.
Why Californians Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage Now
According to recent estimates, nearly one in six California drivers is uninsured. That means there’s a real chance that the person who hits you may not be able to pay for your injuries or repairs. Without uninsured motorist coverage, those costs could fall entirely on you. With rising medical bills and repair costs, even minor fender-benders can quickly add up. UM and UIM coverage are designed to bridge that gap, helping you avoid out-of-pocket costs or the hassle of taking another driver to court. It’s protection for your health, car, and savings; all in one.
Why Californians Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage Now
A smart rule of thumb is to match your UM/UIM limits to your liability limits. Many California drivers choose coverage such as $100,000/$300,000 or higher to stay well protected in serious accidents, however many carriers cap UM limits at $30,000/$60,000. You can also add Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage, which helps pay for medical expenses regardless of fault. It’s usually inexpensive and provides a quick safety net after an accident. Your insurance agent can help you choose limits and add-ons that make sense for your needs and budget.
What To Do After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
If you’re in an accident and suspect the other driver is uninsured:
- Get to safety and call 911 if anyone is injured.
- Exchange contact and vehicle information.
- Take photos of the vehicles, damage, and surroundings.
- Gather witness names and phone numbers.
- File a police report, especially for hit-and-runs.
- Don’t accept cash or side deals at the scene.
- Report the claim to your insurer right away.
- Seek medical care promptly, even for minor pain.
Your insurance company will investigate and determine whether the other driver was uninsured or underinsured. If they confirm it, your uninsured motorist coverage (or underinsured motorist coverage) will apply based on your policy limits.
Get an Auto Insurance Quote from AIS
The good news is uninsured motorist coverage is relatively affordable, especially compared to the potential costs of an uninsured driver hitting you. It’s one of the simplest and most valuable protections you can add to your auto policy. Need help finding the right level of protection? Call AIS Insurance at (888) 772-4247 for a personalized quote today and drive with confidence knowing you’re covered, no matter who’s on the road.
The information in this article is obtained from various sources and offered for educational purposes only. Furthermore, it should not replace the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms, and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
