Although Arizona law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, many either do not comply or have limited coverage that may not be enough to pay for your damages. In fact, an estimated 12 percent of drivers in this state are uninsured, according to the Insurance Information Institute (iii). Due to this fact, it is strongly recommended to purchase both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with an auto insurance policy.
If you have been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your ability to receive compensation may be hindered. Our Arizona car accident lawyers at Torgenson Law have an in-depth knowledge of state and federal laws and will guide you through the legal process. Call (602) 726-0747 and schedule a free consultation today with a Arizona uninsured motorist accident attorney.
All registered vehicles are required to have liability insurance coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Arizona’s minimum required policy structure is 15/30/10:
In July 2020, the limits for liability insurance in Arizona will increase to 25/50/15.
Although auto insurance is required of all drivers, it is an unfortunate fact that many fail to obtain it or let it lapse. Even when a negligent driver carries the minimum liability policy, the coverage is often insufficient to cover the full range of medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering and other harm caused by a car crash.
Since an at-fault driver’s insurance carrier is expected to cover the resulting costs of an accident in Arizona, seeking compensation from an uninsured motorist can be difficult. You have the right to sue the person without insurance, though in some instances, they may not possess enough assets to warrant litigation. You can, however, make a claim against your insurance company to recover damages if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage added to your policy.
This type of coverage will also assist you when accident damages exceed the policy limits of the driver who hit you. For example, suppose a driver carrying $10,000 in property damage liability coverage hits you, causing $15,000 in damages. Since the at-fault driver is covered for $10,000, you will only be able to recover a portion of your actual losses. Depending on the terms of your own insurance coverage, you may be eligible to file a claim for the remaining $5,000 from your insurer.
Hiring experienced legal representation if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist and severely injured will be crucial in obtaining compensation. Not only will your health require your attention, but insurance companies will often attempt to deny and delay valid claims. The sooner an uninsured motorist accident attorney is involved the better, as you will then be protected and given the best chance at recovering full and fair payment.
We will help you navigate the claims process and explore every potential avenue for obtaining the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us at (602) 726-0747 and schedule a free case evaluation with our Arizona uninsured motorist accident attorneys.