Hit by an uninsured driver in California: how coverage questions usually work

Why uninsured crashes feel different

California requires drivers to carry proof of financial responsibility, usually a liability insurance policy. Not every driver follows that rule. When the other driver has no insurance, or has less coverage than the losses involved, people often find that the usual next step of calling the other driver’s insurer does not lead anywhere useful.

That is when attention shifts to coverage you may already hold. Many California auto policies include uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. These coverages are designed for situations in which the at-fault driver cannot pay, but the details depend on the specific policy language.

Uninsured motorist coverage in California

California Insurance Code section 11580.2 requires insurers to offer uninsured motorist coverage with auto liability policies. A policyholder can reject or reduce that coverage, but the rejection generally needs to be in writing. If you are not sure whether you have UM or UIM coverage, the declarations page of your policy is the place to start, and your insurer can send a copy.

Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage relates to injuries. Property damage to your vehicle is often handled through collision coverage or a separate uninsured motorist property damage provision. Hit-and-run situations can also involve UM coverage, although policies often include reporting requirements and time limits.

California minimum liability limits

For policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, California’s minimum liability limits are $30,000 for injury or death to one person, $60,000 for injury or death to more than one person and $15,000 for property damage. Many injuries involve costs that exceed those amounts. Underinsured motorist coverage may become relevant when the other driver has insurance, but less than the losses involved.

Records people often keep

Useful records include the police or traffic collision report number, photos of the vehicles and scene, names and contact details for witnesses, the other driver’s information (if available), medical records and bills, and documentation of missed work. Notify your own insurer promptly; policies often require timely notice.

If the driver fled, report the crash to law enforcement as soon as you can. California also requires a DMV SR-1 report within 10 days for crashes involving injury, death or property damage over $1,000.

Questions to ask

Questions often include whether your policy includes UM or UIM coverage, what limits apply, whether medical payments coverage is available, and what deadlines your policy contains. A licensed attorney can explain how these rules apply to your situation. Next Step Injury is a free consumer advertising platform, not a law firm or a lawyer referral service. It does not evaluate situations or give legal advice. After an inquiry, a participating attorney may contact you, and you decide whether to work with that attorney.