INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS IN CALIFORNIA-UNINSURED MOTORIST PROTECTION
Law Offices of Capp and Marsh-(888) 558 6275
It is illegal in the State of California to operate a motor vehicle without buying insurance.
The minimum insurance coverage required in California is listed below:
| $15,000 for injury or death of 1 person per accident
| $30,000 for injury or death of 2 or more persons per accident
| $5,000 for property damage per accident | |
However, despite the legal requirement, many people operate motor vehicles without a valid policy of insurance. Furthermore, it could very well be that the above minimum coverage levels will not cover the amount of loss and damage suffered by you.
What is an uninsured motorist?
An "Uninsured motorist" is a person responsible for your injuries and who was operating a vehicle without any insurance coverage whatsoever.
What is an underinsured motorist?
An "Underinsured motorist" is a person responsible for your injuries who purchased only the minimum policy required by law, or some other limit which will not cover the loss and damage suffered by you.
What can I do if I am injured by an uninsured or underinsured motorist?
In the event that you have been injured by an uninsured or uninsured motorist, you can of course sue them directly and try to collect on their personal assets. However, given that the individual has been driving without insurance or on low limits, it is extremely unlikely that they will have any assets that you could use to satisfy any judgment you may obtain.
What if I have uninsured or underinsured Motorist protection?
For this reason, it is highly recommended that you purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage from your own insurance company. If you have purchased underinsured motorist coverage, you will be able to collect from your insurance company to recoup your loss and damage that you are unable to collect from the responsible party.