Getting into a car accident is stressful enough—but when the at-fault driver has no insurance, the situation becomes even more overwhelming. As a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer and Los Angeles accident attorney, our team at Hakakian Law Group regularly handles uninsured and underinsured motorist claims throughout West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and across Southern California.

Even though California requires drivers to carry liability insurance, many still get behind the wheel without it. When an uninsured driver causes a crash, it can complicate your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and vehicle repairs. Fortunately, you have several legal options to protect yourself and your rights.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

Your first priority is always safety. Check for injuries and call emergency services if anyone is hurt. Because you may later file a claim with your own insurance or pursue legal options, contacting law enforcement is essential so that an official police report can be created. This documentation is especially important in cases involving uninsured motorists and hit-and-run accidents.

While still at the scene, gather as much information as possible—photos of the vehicles, the crash scene, property damage, road conditions, and anything else that may support your claim. These steps are crucial whether you're dealing with a car accident lawyer Los Angeles case, a motorcycle accident lawyer Los Angeles situation, or any other type of collision.

Once you’re safe, notify your insurance company promptly. Quick reporting helps protect your claim and ensures that your insurer has the information they need to begin evaluating your losses.

How Fault Impacts Your Next Steps

California follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the driver who caused the crash is responsible for paying damages. When that person has no insurance, your path to compensation looks different—but not impossible. Your insurer will investigate the accident and determine liability. At that point, certain coverages—like uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM)—may come into play.

If the uninsured driver is found responsible, an experienced Los Angeles car crash attorney can help you understand how fault impacts your options and what your insurance policy may cover.

How Your Insurance Coverage Can Help

Many drivers carry UM/UIM coverage, which is specifically designed for situations involving uninsured or underinsured motorists. This coverage can help pay for:

• Medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Collision coverage and personal injury protection (PIP) may also assist with medical bills and vehicle repairs. Regardless of the type of crash—whether you were a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian—these coverages can help reduce financial strain. Our firm often assists with claims involving:

• Truck accident lawyer Los Angeles cases
• Uber accident lawyer Los Angeles and Lyft injury claims
• Motorcycle crash attorney California claims
• Bicycle accident lawyer Los Angeles cases
• Pedestrian injury attorney California matters

Considering Legal Action

In some situations, filing a lawsuit against the uninsured driver may be an option. However, if the driver lacks insurance, they often lack the financial resources to pay a judgment. Before pursuing a lawsuit, speak with a knowledgeable West Hollywood personal injury law firm to determine whether legal action will realistically help you recover damages.

A dedicated injury claim lawyer California can explain your rights, analyze the facts of your case, and help you understand which steps offer the best chance of meaningful compensation.

What to Do in a Hit-and-Run Accident

If the driver who hit you flees the scene, your UM coverage typically becomes the primary avenue for compensation. Filing a police report immediately is crucial in these situations. Hit-and-run cases are common throughout Los Angeles, and our team has extensive experience helping clients navigate these complex claims.

Navigating the Aftermath

Dealing with an uninsured driver accident is frustrating, especially when you’re already coping with injuries, medical bills, or lost income. You don’t have to go through this alone. A skilled Los Angeles accident attorney can help you gather documentation, communicate with your insurance company, and protect your legal rights every step of the way.

Whether you're facing a dog bite lawyer Los Angeles situation, a traumatic brain injury lawyer Los Angeles claim, or any other type of serious accident, acting quickly and getting professional guidance makes a significant difference.

By understanding your coverage, knowing your rights, and working with a trusted auto accident lawyer California, you can move forward with confidence—no matter how complicated the situation feels at first.

Hakakian Law Group proudly serves accident victims across Los Angeles, West Hollywood, and surrounding communities. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, contact us for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win.