Fresno Uninsured Motorist Attorney
Let’s say you are injured in an accident with a negligent driver. He or she hit you while both texting and driving under the influence, so the negligence is undeniable. But if that driver also has no auto insurance, no assets, and maybe not even a job or regular income, you may think that you have no recourse and that filing a personal injury claim is waste of your time.
Don’t give up that easily. An skilled Fresno car accident attorney can often win compensation for a client even when the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
If you’re injured by a negligent driver and that driver’s insurance isn’t adequate to cover the damages, a good uninsured motorist attorney will find another way to obtain compensation for you. Was the negligent driver working when the accident happened?
If so, his or her employer might be named as a defendant. Auto manufacturers and repair shops are also potential defendants if defective equipment or negligent maintenance is a factor in the accident. Even the local government can be considered if a poor road design or a broken traffic signal was a factor in the crash.
California drivers should have at least $100,000 of UM coverage and $250,000 of UM coverage if you can. A higher amount ensures that if your personal injury damages require a claim against your own insurer, you’ll know in advance that the policy covers your compensation needs. If you’ve been injured because of another driver’s negligence, don’t give up just because that driver has inadequate insurance (or no insurance).
Speak first to an uninsured motorist attorney at the law firm of Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian. We offer real hope and aggressive legal representation. We will exhaust every possible source of compensation to make sure you receive justice. If you’ve been injured by negligent uninsured drivers, don’t hesitate to speak with our underinsured motorist attorney as soon as possible.
How does uninsured motorist coverage work?
If you are injured in an accident by a driver who has no insurance, you can make a claim against your automobile policy for your damages and injuries. Making an uninsured motorist claim does not affect your future insurance rates.
When does uninsured motorist coverage kick in?
Whenever the at-fault driver has no insurance at the time of your accident or you were in a ‘hit and run’ collision, your own automobile policy will provide insurance coverage. Your coverage limits will be based on your own policy.
Who pays for the damages when you have an accident with an uninsured motorist?
When you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist, determining who pays for the damages can depend on various factors, including the laws in your state and the specific circumstances of the accident.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your insurance policy, your own insurance company may step in to cover the damages. Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance or cannot be identified, such as in hit-and-run accidents. This coverage typically helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.
If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you may need to pursue other avenues for compensation. This could include seeking restitution directly from the uninsured motorist, though this may prove challenging if they lack the financial means to pay for the damages.
In some cases, you may also consider filing a lawsuit against the uninsured motorist to recover compensation for your losses. However, this can be a complex and time-consuming process, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to collect damages even if you win the lawsuit, especially if the uninsured motorist doesn’t have significant assets.
Ultimately, dealing with an accident involving an uninsured motorist can be challenging, and the best course of action may depend on the specific circumstances of the accident and your insurance coverage. It’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you understand your rights and explore all available options for seeking compensation for your damages.
How can a personal injury lawyer help with an uninsured motorist case?
In Fresno, navigating an uninsured motorist case can be a daunting task, fraught with complexities. However, enlisting the assistance of a seasoned Fresno personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable support and advocacy throughout the legal process.
First and foremost, a skilled personal injury attorney brings a wealth of legal expertise to the table. They possess an intricate understanding of California’s laws and regulations regarding uninsured motorists, enabling them to effectively navigate the intricacies of your case. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, they employ strategic tactics to bolster your claim and maximize your chances of securing fair compensation.
One of the primary ways a Fresno personal injury lawyer can assist in an uninsured motorist case is by conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. This includes gathering police reports, witness statements, and any other pertinent evidence to establish liability and strengthen your claim. By meticulously examining the details of the incident, they can build a compelling case on your behalf.
Furthermore, a skilled attorney can help you explore all available avenues for compensation. In uninsured motorist cases, seeking restitution directly from the at-fault driver may prove futile if they lack adequate insurance coverage. However, your lawyer can help you tap into other potential sources of compensation, such as your own uninsured motorist coverage or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver.
Negotiating with insurance companies can be a formidable challenge, especially when dealing with uninsured motorist claims. These companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A seasoned personal injury lawyer knows how to navigate these negotiations effectively, advocating fiercely for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Beyond legal representation, a Fresno personal injury lawyer serves as a compassionate ally during what can be a tumultuous time. They provide invaluable support and guidance, offering reassurance and clarity every step of the way. Whether you’re grappling with mounting medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress, your attorney is there to advocate for your best interests and alleviate the burdens weighing on your shoulders.
In essence, enlisting the services of a Fresno personal injury lawyer is essential in navigating an uninsured motorist case. From conducting comprehensive investigations to skillfully negotiating with insurance companies, they play a pivotal role in securing the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve. If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted personal injury attorney for guidance and representation.
SET UP A CONSULTATION NOW
Our uninsured motorist attorneys keep flexible hours to meet your scheduling needs, and we promptly return every call. Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian represents clients in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kingsburg, and Hanford counties. Our staff speaks Spanish and French, so don’t let a language barrier keep you from the legal help you need. Call Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian today at 559-545-0383 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.
FAQs About Accidents with Uninsured Drivers in Fresno:
1. What should I do if I’m involved in an accident with an uninsured driver in Fresno?
- If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver in Fresno, it’s essential to follow standard procedures: exchange contact and insurance information, gather evidence, and report the accident to the police. Additionally, seek medical attention if necessary and notify your insurance company.
2. Does California require drivers to have insurance coverage?
- Yes, California law mandates that all drivers carry liability insurance coverage. However, some drivers may fail to comply with this requirement, leading to accidents involving uninsured motorists.
3. What should I do if the uninsured driver refuses to provide their information?
- If the uninsured driver refuses to provide their information after an accident, try to gather as much evidence as possible, such as eyewitness testimony and photos of the scene. Contact the police to report the incident and seek legal guidance on how to proceed.
4. Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim for an accident with an uninsured driver?
- Filing a claim for an accident with an uninsured driver may impact your insurance rates, similar to filing a claim for any other accident. However, the extent of the increase can vary depending on factors such as your insurance company’s policies and the specific circumstances of the accident.
5. What if I don’t have uninsured motorist coverage?
- If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage and are unable to recover compensation from the uninsured driver, you may need to explore other options for seeking restitution, such as pursuing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options in this situation.
6. Can I sue the uninsured driver for damages?
- Yes, you can pursue a lawsuit against the uninsured driver to recover compensation for damages such as medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering. However, collecting damages from an underinsured driver can be challenging, especially if they lack significant assets.
7. What if I have uninsured motorist coverage?
- If you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company to seek compensation for damages caused by the uninsured driver. This coverage typically helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
8. Should I consult with a personal injury attorney after an accident with an uninsured driver?
- Yes, consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience handling California uninsured motorist cases can be beneficial. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, navigate the claims process, and pursue compensation for your damages effectively.
