Uninsured motorist claims are claims that are filed to recover for bodily injuries and property damages where the other party to a car accident did not have auto insurance coverage at the time. In order to make a successful uninsured motorist claim, it is important to be proactive. This means, to get the most recovery it is important to take pictures of your injuries and your property damage and to document all expenses incurred because of the accident.
In some cases, you will be making a claim against your own insurance, so it is important to be prepared. Unlike claims that involve another driver with insurance, an insurance claim against your own carrier usually takes much longer to complete, and in the event that you do not reach a resolution, you may need to go to arbitration, which is a private trial that is binding on you similar to a jury trial in court.
That is why it is important to contact a lawyer right away if you suspect that you are involved in an accident where the other driver lacks insurance. If you are in this situation, contact Varlack Legal Services for a free consultation about how our Hayward, California personal injury law team can help you. We serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay area and beyond.
Time Limits to File Uninsured Motorist Claims
Additionally, your right to file your uninsured motorist claim is limited, and in the state of California, you only have two years to do so from the date of your accident. If you fail to file your claim and demand arbitration with the insurance company before your two years expire, you may be forever barred from recovery. Again, it is important to contact an experienced litigator if you have questions about an uninsured motorist claim.
Free Consultation if You Were in An Accident with an Uninsured Driver
At VLS, we provide a free initial consultation to go over the steps that we will take to assist you in your claim and arm you with the tools that you’ll need to get organized and make the most of your claim.
We understand that dealing with injuries and damages can be tough, and we will work around the clock to get you the answers you need and complete your claim. It is important to remember that insurance companies stay in business by not paying claims at full value so, when in doubt, contact a lawyer to do the heavy lifting. You’ll be glad you did.