{"id":54,"date":"2026-10-14T08:22:35","date_gmt":"2026-10-14T08:22:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/car-accident-compensation-california\/uninsured-motorist-car-accident-claim-california\/"},"modified":"2026-10-24T09:00:57","modified_gmt":"2026-10-24T09:00:57","slug":"uninsured-motorist-car-accident-claim-california","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/uninsured-motorist-car-accident-claim-california\/","title":{"rendered":"Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California | Colvin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"An appraiser in a work apron inspects a dented four-door sedan in a fluorescent-lit auto body shop bay.\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/an-appraiser-in-a-work-apron-inspects-a-dented-four-door-sed-photo-5.jpg\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Uninsured Motorist Car Accidents | Bakersfield, Kern County<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Hit by a Driver With No Insurance? We Can Review Your Options.<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Colvin Accident Lawyers helps Kern County drivers and families understand how uninsured motorist coverage may apply after a crash. Your initial consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Request Your Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Request Your Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Donald Norman Colvin \u00b7 Published October 15, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n<h2>Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California<\/h2>\n<p>An uninsured motorist car accident claim California residents make is usually filed under their own auto policy. If a driver with no insurance hit you, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may help pay part of your losses. How much it helps depends on your policy wording.<\/p>\n<p>Uninsured motorist claims carry a deadline that is easy to miss. Under California Insurance Code \u00a7 11580.2(i), within two years of the accident the insured must do one of the following: file a lawsuit against the uninsured motorist, reach an agreement with the insurer on the amount due, or formally begin arbitration (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code Civ. Proc. \u00a7 335.1<\/a>). Filing a personal injury lawsuit is not the only way to preserve the claim. Otherwise, the claim may be lost. It is general information, not advice about your specific crash.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/modern-auto-repair-garage-with-a-car-raised-on-a-lift-surrou-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Modern auto repair garage with a car raised on a lift, surrounded by tools and equipment.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is and Who It Protects<\/h2>\n<p>Your auto policy may include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.insurance.ca.gov\/01-consumers\/105-type\/95-guides\/01-auto\/hadaccident.cfm\">uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage<\/a>. This coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no liability insurance. You make the claim with your own insurer, not the other driver&#8217;s company.<\/p>\n<p>Coverage usually reaches:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The policyholder<\/li>\n<li>Listed family members, as the policy defines them<\/li>\n<li>Some passengers in your car, depending on the wording<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Start by checking your declarations page. It lists your coverage types and limits. If you don&#8217;t see uninsured motorist coverage, ask your insurer what your policy includes.<\/p>\n<h2>Uninsured vs. Underinsured: What Changes for Your Claim<\/h2>\n<p>An uninsured driver has no liability policy. An underinsured driver has a policy, but its limits are too low to cover your losses. Each situation uses a different part of your coverage.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><\/th>\n<th>Uninsured driver<\/th>\n<th>Underinsured driver<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Other driver&#8217;s coverage<\/td>\n<td>None<\/td>\n<td>Some, but limits are too low<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Your coverage that may apply<\/td>\n<td>Uninsured motorist (UM)<\/td>\n<td>Underinsured motorist (UIM)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>What to check<\/td>\n<td>UM limits on your declarations page<\/td>\n<td>UIM limits and how the policy defines &#8220;underinsured&#8221;<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t assume either coverage applies. Definitions and limits differ between insurers, so read your own policy wording.<\/p>\n<h2>Your Own Policy: Bodily Injury, Property Damage, and Collision<\/h2>\n<p>Your policy may include three separate coverages that respond to a crash with an uninsured driver. Each one pays for different losses.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>UM bodily injury:<\/strong> Helps with injuries to covered people, up to your limits. Policies differ on which damages they pay.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD):<\/strong> May cover damage to your vehicle when the at-fault driver is uninsured. It usually comes after any deductible.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Collision:<\/strong> A separate option that may pay for vehicle repairs after a crash. It usually has a deductible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Which coverage fits depends on your policy and your losses. Your insurer&#8217;s claim handling is not legal advice, so ask questions before you agree to anything.<\/p>\n<h2>Proof and Evidence That Usually Matters<\/h2>\n<p>Clear records make every part of a UM claim easier to support. Gather them early, while details are fresh.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The police report number, plus the officer&#8217;s name and agency<\/li>\n<li>Photos of the scene, both vehicles, and your injuries<\/li>\n<li>Names and phone numbers of any witnesses<\/li>\n<li>Medical records and bills for every visit<\/li>\n<li>Repair estimates, receipts, and proof of lost income<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If the other driver left the scene, California law sets specific conditions for uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=INS&amp;sectionNum=11580.2.\">Insurance Code \u00a7 11580.2<\/a>). These include physical contact with the vehicle, a police report within 24 hours, and a sworn statement filed with your insurer within 30 days. Don&#8217;t assume one type of evidence will settle the claim. Keep copies of every document you send and receive.<\/p>\n<h2>Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California: How the Process Works<\/h2>\n<p>Most UM claims follow a few steps. Timing depends on your insurer, your injuries, and whether you and the insurer disagree.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Report the crash.<\/strong> Call the police and get the report number.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Notify your insurer.<\/strong> Tell your own insurer you are pursuing UM benefits. Put it in writing if you can. Stick to facts, not guesses about fault or value.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Document your losses.<\/strong> Keep treatment records, time off work, and out-of-pocket costs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Submit your demand.<\/strong> Send your documents and request payment under your UM coverage.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Resolve any dispute.<\/strong> If you disagree on value, your policy may require arbitration. A lawsuit may also follow.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Each step builds on the last. Missing records or late notice can slow the process, so act early.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Deadlines and What to Do in the First Days After a Crash<\/h2>\n<p>Deadlines for filing injury lawsuits can be strict. California generally gives two years to file a personal injury lawsuit (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code Civ. Proc. \u00a7 335.1<\/a>), so contacting a lawyer early is important. Your policy&#8217;s notice rules can be separate and shorter, so check them now.<\/p>\n<p>If a public entity was involved, the time limits can be much shorter. That includes a city, county, state agency, or public transit operator. Claims involving public entities can follow separate procedures, so timing matters. Ask a lawyer right away about any written-claim requirement.<\/p>\n<p>Medical care comes first. See a doctor promptly, follow your treatment plan, and keep records of every visit. Don&#8217;t sign releases or settlement papers until you have reviewed them. Keep your damaged property until the insurer has inspected it.<\/p>\n<h2>What Affects the Value of an Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California<\/h2>\n<p>No one can predict a dollar amount from a web page. Each claim turns on its own facts. The main factors usually include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Medical treatment and expected recovery<\/li>\n<li>Documented lost income<\/li>\n<li>Your policy limits<\/li>\n<li>How serious and lasting the injuries are<\/li>\n<li>The quality of your proof<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some rules change what you can recover. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=3333.4.\">Civil Code \u00a7 3333.4<\/a>, an owner of an uninsured vehicle involved in the crash generally cannot recover non-economic losses such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.courts.ca.gov\/partners\/317.htm\">pain and suffering<\/a>. The same section bars non-economic losses for a driver who is later convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in connection with the accident. The bar also reaches claims under your own uninsured motorist coverage. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=3333.4.\">\u00a7 3333.4(b)<\/a>, an insurer is not liable under a liability or uninsured motorist policy to pay non-economic losses to a person barred under subdivision (a). A narrow exception in <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=3333.4.\">\u00a7 3333.4(c)<\/a> covers an uninsured owner who was injured by a driver convicted of DUI in connection with the accident.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/mechanic-repairing-a-car-in-an-indoor-auto-workshop-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Mechanic repairing a car in an indoor auto workshop.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Why Colvin Accident Lawyers and Common Questions<\/h2>\n<p>Donald Norman Colvin is the California-licensed attorney at Colvin Accident Lawyers in Bakersfield. The practice handles car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, bus, dog bite, premises liability, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death matters.<\/p>\n<p>Our team includes support staff who help with records, scheduling, and communication. We explain each step in plain language so you know what comes next.<\/p>\n<p>The first consultation is free, confidential, and without obligation to continue. People in Kern County, Fresno, Visalia, Lancaster, Palmdale, Delano, and Tehachapi can reach the office by phone or online.<\/p>\n<h3>Do I need a lawyer for an uninsured motorist claim?<\/h3>\n<p>Some people handle a simple UM claim with their insurer. A lawyer can review the policy, the deadlines, and the proof. The right choice depends on your injuries and your policy wording.<\/p>\n<h3>Does California require uninsured motorist coverage?<\/h3>\n<p>Check your declarations page to see whether UM coverage is on your policy. Ask your insurer to explain any coverage you don&#8217;t understand.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I sue an uninsured driver in California?<\/h3>\n<p>A lawsuit against the at-fault driver is separate from a claim under your own policy.<\/p>\n<h3>What if the driver fled the scene?<\/h3>\n<p>Report the crash to police right away and check your policy&#8217;s proof rules. The outcome depends on your policy wording and the evidence you have.<\/p>\n<h3>Will a UM claim raise my premiums?<\/h3>\n<p>Your insurer decides how a claim affects your rates. Ask your insurer directly before you file.<\/p>\n<p>If an uninsured driver hit you or someone in your family, you may be weighing your own policy right now. You don&#8217;t have to sort it out alone. Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers for a <a href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">free first consultation<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Donald Norman Colvin, Colvin Accident Lawyers, Bakersfield, California \u2014 responsible for this site.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific legal situation.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How We Approach Uninsured Motorist Claims<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Policy Review<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We look at the uninsured motorist language in your own auto policy, because the wording of that policy shapes what coverage may be available.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focused Attention<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our team handles the paperwork, insurer communications, and follow-up so you can concentrate on recovering.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local Knowledge<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Colvin Accident Lawyers is based in Bakersfield and represents accident victims throughout Kern County and nearby communities.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advocacy for You<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We stand between you and the insurance company, so that you do not have to negotiate with an adjuster alone.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Speak With a Lawyer Before You Sign Anything<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insurance companies may ask for recorded statements or signed forms soon after a crash. Those requests can affect your claim, so consider talking with an attorney before you give a statement or sign any release.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">What Happens After You Contact Us<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Free Consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell us what happened. We will listen, answer your questions, and explain the process. The consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Review of Your Coverage<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We review the accident facts, the police report, and your auto policy to identify the coverage that may apply to your loss.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Claim Handling<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We communicate with the insurer on your behalf and keep you informed at each stage of the claim.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Clear Next Steps<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain your options in plain language so that you can decide how to move forward.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Injured by an Uninsured Driver in Kern County? Start With a Free Consultation.<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers Today<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers Today<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/\">Car Accident Compensation in California: Who Pays, What You Can Recover, and Next Steps | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/factors-affecting-car-accident-claim-value-california\/\">What Affects the Value of a Car Accident Injury Claim in California? | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/what-is-the-average-settlement-for-a-rear-end-collision-in-california\/\">What is the average settlement for a rear-end collision in California?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california\/\">Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim in California | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/bakersfield-rear-end-collision-injury-lawyer\/\">Rear-End Collision Injury Lawyer in Bakersfield<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/delayed-whiplash-symptoms-car-accident-california\/\">Delayed Whiplash Symptoms After a Car Accident: When to See a Doctor<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/does-california-require-underinsured-motorist-coverage\/\">Does California require underinsured motorist coverage?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How an uninsured motorist car accident claim California works: UM coverage, filing deadlines, and evidence. Free first consultation from Colvin.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":49,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Donald Norman Colvin\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/donald-colvin-esq-bakersfield-personal-injury-attorney\", \"jobTitle\": \"Bakersfield Personal Injury Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/bakersfield.kernhigh.org\", \"https:\/\/www.calstate.edu\", \"https:\/\/www.wsulaw.edu\", \"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nZfBxYtQQifX3osw5\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Regina Absher\", \"jobTitle\": \"Personal Injury Paralegal\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"headline\": \"Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California | Colvin\", \"image\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/an-appraiser-in-a-work-apron-inspects-a-dented-four-door-sed-photo-5.jpg\", \"description\": \"How an uninsured motorist car accident claim California works: UM coverage, filing deadlines, and evidence. Free first consultation from Colvin.\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I need a lawyer for an uninsured motorist claim?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Some people handle a simple UM claim with their insurer. A lawyer can review the policy, the deadlines, and the proof. The right choice depends on your injuries and your policy wording.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does California require uninsured motorist coverage?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Check your declarations page to see whether UM coverage is on your policy. Ask your insurer to explain any coverage you don\u2019t understand.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I sue an uninsured driver in California?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A lawsuit against the at-fault driver is separate from a claim under your own policy.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What if the driver fled the scene?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Report the crash to police right away and check your policy\u2019s proof rules. The outcome depends on your policy wording and the evidence you have.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will a UM claim raise my premiums?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Your insurer decides how a claim affects your rates. Ask your insurer directly before you file.\"}}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Car Accident Compensation California\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/car-accident-compensation-california\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim California\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/car-accident-compensation-california\/uninsured-motorist-car-accident-claim-california\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"How an uninsured motorist car accident claim California works: UM coverage, filing deadlines, and evidence. Free first consultation from Colvin.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-54","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/54","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=54"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/54\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2049,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/54\/revisions\/2049"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/49"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=54"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}