Does California Rank High for Uninsured Motorists?

 Posted on March 28, 2025 in Car Accident

According to a recent report, five out of the top ten U.S. cities with the lowest rates of car insurance coverage are in California. Los Angeles ranks as the least-insured city in the country, and Riverside comes in tied at number nine. You might not think California’s 16.6 percent of uninsured motorists would impact your life, but that could change if you are injured in an accident caused by one.

Car insurance is expensive, and some people try to cut those costs wherever possible. While the desire to save money is understandable, opting out of buying uninsured/underinsured (UI/UIM) motorist coverage can be a costly mistake. Our knowledgeable Riverside County, CA car accident lawyer can explain more.

Why Do I Need Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

If you are involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver in Los Angeles, the likelihood of you having to pay your own damages is 82 percent higher than the national average. That percentage drops to 28.2 percent in Riverside.

Even if the other driver has car insurance, the state’s minimum liability coverages are very low at $30,000 per person for injury or death, $60,000 for injury or death per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Suppose Joe only has this minimum coverage. He is likely considered underinsured. Joe causes an accident when he hits a minivan carrying a group of six passengers and a driver. If only one or two of the minivan’s occupants are injured or killed, each person could collect up to $30,000 from Joe’s policy. However, if five people are hurt, they have to split the $60,000.

UI/UIM coverage is optional in California. However, that coverage can be used for your accident-related damages if the driver who caused your accident has no or only minimal car insurance. Another time when your UI/UIM coverage could kick in is if you are hurt in a hit-and-run collision. Your UI/UIM policy limits will apply, so if your limits are low, you could be left to pay the rest of your expenses out-of-pocket.

Why Would I Need a Lawyer If My Claim Is Against My Own Insurance Company?

Many people think that filing a claim against their own insurance policy means the claim will be paid fairly. Sadly, that rarely happens. Insurance adjusters investigate your accident and calculate how much your case is worth. However, the company will probably make you a very low settlement offer, knowing that you deserve more. If you accept that offer, you cannot ask for more money later.

Your lawyer will also investigate your accident and calculate your damages. The difference between us and your insurer is that our goals are to protect your best interests and help you get the highest amount of compensation available, while the insurance company’s priority is to stay profitable, even at your expense. We will fight on your behalf no matter whose insurance company is liable.

Call Our Skilled Temecula, CA Car Accident Lawyer

Now is a good time to review your car insurance policy and consider buying UI/UIM coverage or increasing your coverage limits. If you are injured in a car accident, call Maineri Law Firm at 951-698-4200 or contact us online today. Our experienced Riverside County, CA personal injury attorney can answer your questions during a free case review.