Drivers in California are required to carry auto insurance — yet thousands drive with no insurance or minimum coverage. When an uninsured or underinsured driver causes an accident, victims often feel helpless.
Fortunately, California law provides multiple pathways for recovery.
1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
UM coverage applies when:
The at-fault driver has no insurance
The at-fault driver flees (hit-and-run)
The driver is identified but uninsured
UM claims allow injured victims to recover:
Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future treatment costs
Victims often consult a car accident lawyer in Irvine to understand how their UM coverage applies.
2. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s limits are too low.
Example:
At-fault driver policy: $15,000
Victim’s UIM policy: $250,000
Victim’s total damages: $200,000
The victim can recover the remaining value from their own UIM policy.
3. Why UM/UIM Claims Are Often Difficult
Insurance companies may:
Delay processing
Request unnecessary documentation
Claim injuries were “pre-existing”
Offer low valuations
Dispute medical evidence
High-severity cases — such as those involving traumatic injuries — may require a brain injury lawyer in Irvine to establish long-term neurological harm.
4. Other Sources of Compensation
A. Employer Liability
If the driver was working, the employer may be responsible.
B. Rideshare Coverage
Uber and Lyft provide high-value coverage when a ride is active.
C. Third-Party Liability
Such as:
Vehicle manufacturers
Public entities
Businesses
Commercial truck companies
Commercial incidents often require involvement from a truck accident attorney in Orange County.
5. When a UM/UIM Attorney Is Essential
You should consult a personal injury law firm in Irvine when:
Injuries are serious
A hit-and-run occurred
The other driver lacked coverage
Your insurance company is uncooperative
You may need long-term medical treatment
Families dealing with fatal incidents may also require a wrongful death lawyer in Orange County to navigate layered coverage issues.
Conclusion
Uninsured and underinsured driver cases are complicated, but victims still have options. Understanding UM/UIM coverage — and acting quickly — can help preserve your rights and secure full compensation.
About the Author
Cynthia Craig is a senior trial attorney and founding partner of Kubota & Craig, PC, a National and Regional Tier 1 personal injury law firm based in Irvine, California. Recognized by Best Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and repeatedly named a Southern California Super Lawyer, she represents injured clients in motor vehicle collisions, catastrophic injuries, premises liability, and wrongful death cases across Orange County.
