Uninsured/Underinsured Car Accidents in Palm Springs
If a driver without adequate insurance hit you, you may be left wondering how to pay your medical bills or repair your vehicle. These situations are often frustrating and unfair. Fortunately, uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Palm Springs are issues that a knowledgeable personal injury attorney may help you resolve.
Even if the at-fault driver cannot cover your losses, you may still have options. A compassionate auto collision attorney could evaluate your insurance coverage, explain your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to recover. You should not have to face the aftermath of a crash alone, especially when another driver caused it.
Understanding UM/UIM Coverage
Drivers in Palm Springs are not required to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, but those who do are better protected when hit by a driver who lacks adequate insurance.
UM/UIM coverage allows an individual to make a claim through their auto policy when the at-fault driver has no insurance, the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low to cover all losses, or the at-fault driver leaves the scene and is never identified, as in a hit-and-run.
Many drivers are unaware of this protection until they need it. Others may have waived the coverage without realizing its value. An experienced car accident attorney could review the injured person’s policy and determine whether a UM/UIM claim is possible. This step is critical when the driver responsible for the crash is unable or unwilling to pay.
Legal Hurdles After a UM/UIM Claim
Filing a UM/UIM claim after a car accident in Palm Springs is not always simple. Although the injured party is filing with their insurer, the process often becomes just as combative as any other personal injury case. Insurance companies may delay, deny, or undervalue claims, even when their policyholder is entitled to compensation.
These claims often involve:
- Proving the uninsured or underinsured status of the other driver
- Demonstrating that the other driver was at fault
- Documenting the full extent of injuries and losses
- Showing that the accident triggered the UM/UIM limits under the terms of the policy
A skilled accident attorney could gather the necessary evidence and negotiate with the insurer to protect their client’s rights. These cases may require persistence, but with the right guidance, a fair outcome is possible.
What To Do After a Crash With an Uninsured Driver?
The steps someone takes immediately after a Palm Springs collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver can affect their ability to recover damages. Even if the other driver cannot cover their losses, a legal advocate could help preserve their rights.
After a crash, individuals should:
- Call the police and file an accident report
- Exchange information with the other driver, even if they admit they have no insurance
- Take photos of all damage and injuries
- Seek medical care and follow all treatment instructions
- Contact their insurance company and request a copy of their policy
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible
An attorney experienced in uninsured accident claims could help identify coverage opportunities, dispute unfair denials, and push for fair compensation.
Speak With a Lawyer About Palm Springs Car Accident Insurance Coverage
Even when the responsible driver lacks coverage, uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Palm Springs do not have to leave you without options. A personal injury lawyer could guide you through a UM/UIM claim and advocate for the full compensation you need.
The attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group understand the stress of being hit by a driver who cannot pay. They take pride in helping injured individuals understand their rights, access their insurance protections, and rebuild their lives after a crash. Call today for a free consultation.
