STEPS TO TAKE AFTER ACCIDENT WITH UNINSURED DRIVER

Posted on Monday, October 16th, 2017 at 5:49 pm    

California law requires that every driver carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. Liability insurance protects other parties if you cause an accident. Your insurance pays money to the other parties injured in the accident. It also pays to repair or replace damaged property. At this time, all drivers in California are required to have:

  • $15,000 in liability insurance coverage for one victim in an accident
  • $30,000 in liability insurance coverage for more than one person in an accident
  • $5,000 in property damage coverage

Liability insurance is the most common form of financial responsibility used by drivers in California. However, the law allows drivers to meet their financial responsibility by placing a $35,000 deposit with the DMV, purchasing a $35,000 surety bond, or meeting the qualification for self-insurance.

Traffic Accidents with Uninsured Drivers

Sadly, some drivers choose to disobey the law and drive without liability insurance or another acceptable form of financial responsibility. Being injured by an uninsured driver can leave you with thousands of dollars in unpaid medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

If an uninsured driver injures you, even if you are a pedestrian or bicyclist, you should take certain steps after the crash to protect your legal rights.

  • Call 911 immediately to report the accident. It is important for insurance purposes to report the accident even if the other driver does not have insurance coverage. You need to document the collision and the fact that the driver does not have insurance coverage.
  • Never accept cash at the accident scene. Some uninsured drivers may offer cash to the other driver to prevent them from calling the police. Driving without insurance is a traffic offense that could result in several penalties. To avoid these penalties, the other driver may offer to pay for your damages in cash. Do not take the cash — call the police. Even though you sympathize with the other driver, there is no way to be 100 percent certain of the property damage or physical damage until you have your vehicle inspected and you see a doctor. Taking cash at the scene can result in you being responsible for thousands of dollars in uncovered damages.
  • Gather Information from Witnesses. It can be very important to have eyewitness testimony if you need to file a lawsuit for the accident. Ask eyewitnesses for their names and contact information in case they leave before the officer arrives. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene too.
  • Report the accident to your insurance provider. You need to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible after the crash. If you have uninsured insurance coverage, your policy may cover the damages caused by the uninsured
  • Call an attorney as soon as possible. Even if you are dealing with your insurance company, you need an attorney to advise you of your rights. Navigating an uninsured insurance claim can be complex. Furthermore, an attorney can investigate to determine if the other driver has assets that can be used to pay your damages.

Uninsured Motorist Claims Attorney in Sacramento

Our Sacramento personal injury lawyers understand the frustration of being injured by an uninsured driver.  We also understand the legal steps to take to help you recover compensation from any resources available after an uninsured motorist accident.

Call the personal injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to request more information and schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers.  Our attorneys represent clients in Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, El Dorado Hills and other communities in the greater Sacramento area.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
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I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
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I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
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The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
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Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
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I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
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I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!