How UM/UIM Coverage Works

Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is part of your own auto insurance policy. It protects you when the at-fault driver cannot cover your losses. UM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all or in hit-and-run cases where the other driver is never identified. UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s liability limits are insufficient to cover your damages.

California law requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM coverage to all policyholders. If you declined it in writing, it will not be available. But many drivers have it and do not realize it until they need it.

Disputes with Your Own Insurance Company

Filing a UM/UIM claim means dealing with your own insurance company—and their interests are not the same as yours. Even though you have been paying premiums for this exact coverage, your insurer may dispute the severity of your injuries, question whether the other driver was truly at fault, argue that your damages are lower than you claim, or delay processing your claim.

California law requires insurance companies to handle UM/UIM claims in good faith. If they do not, they may face bad faith penalties in addition to the policy benefits owed.

Compensation Available

Through UM/UIM claims, you can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and all other damages you would be entitled to in a standard personal injury case—up to the limits of your own policy.

If the driver who caused your accident was uninsured or underinsured, do not assume you are out of options. Beverly Wilshire Law APC can review your own insurance policy and pursue every available source of compensation on your behalf. Call (310) 424-5566 or email info@bevwilshire.com—we’re here to guide you in the right direction.