Before an accident happens and before a lawyer handles an auto accident case, having your vehicle insured is a must.
Several years ago, a well-orchestrated effort by the insurance companies convinced Californians they needed a law that prohibited the recovery of general damages—often known as pain and suffering, permanent disfigurement, or loss of enjoyment of life—for persons who were uninsured at the time of an accident. This proposition was published as an insurance cost-reducing law.
Unfortunately, insurance rates have risen since the law passed, while the insurance companies reduced their possible liabilities. Consider the fact that this law would apply if a driver’s insurance expired one day prior to an accident, or if a driver borrowed an uninsured car. While having the minimum liability coverage protects your rights against the application of Civil Code section 3333.4, it is recommended that all drivers protect themselves with uninsured motorist coverage just in case they are involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist.