If you’re wondering if you can drive without car insurance in California, the answer is a resounding “no.” If you find yourself in an accident without car insurance, you may be susceptible to fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment, regardless of whether the other driver is at fault.
Am I Still Entitled to Compensation if I Don’t Have Insurance?
Yes, you can still receive compensation for your damages if did not have insurance at the time of the accident. However, not having car insurance can hurt your case and potentially reduce your settlement. Insurance companies and defense lawyers alike will try to drastically reduce your compensation because you were essentially “breaking the law” while operating a vehicle.
But that’s why it is important to consult with a Car Accident Attorney at Maison Law after being involved in an accident. Even if you are uninsured, our firm will protect your right to compensation and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
How is My Settlement Impacted if I Don’t Have Insurance?
If you are not found at fault for the accident, then you are entitled to whatever settlement amount you and the insurance company agree upon, regardless if you have car insurance or not. Our attorneys can help you understand what your settlement is worth, depending on the details of your car accident. However, no case is the same, and the outcomes vary on a case-by-case basis. The following factors will play a large part in determining the total value of your car accident settlement:
- Severity of injuries: These can be broken down into 3 tiers, with Tier 3 being the most severe.
- Tier 1: Minor, non-surgical injuries such as strains, sprains, and contusions.
- Tier 2: Deep lacerations, broken or fractured bones that require surgical intervention
- Tier 3: Traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries, resulting in temporary or permanent function loss
- Insurance coverage: the extent of the at-fault party’s insurance policy
- Lost income: Total amount of lost wages, which were a direct result of the injuries sustained from the accident.
- Medical Expenses: Medical expenses incurred from your injuries and any future medical treatments you may expect to have.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional stress, trauma, and anxiety caused by how much your life has changed since the accident.
Penalties Drivers Can Face for Driving Without Insurance:
Being caught without insurance, especially after an accident, can have severe consequences as it is a violation of California Law. The following are penalties drivers can face if they do not meet the liability auto insurance coverage requirements:
- $200-$500 fine if you are convicted of driving without insurance, depending on the details of the violation
- Impoundment: the court may rule to impound your vehicle, even if it is your first offense
- Towing and storage fees: if your vehicle is impounded, you can be held responsible for all towing and storing fees
- License suspension: getting into an accident while uninsured can result in a license suspension
Contact a California Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a car accident in California, the Car Accident Attorneys at Maison can help. Even if you were uninsured, you are entitled to compensation if your injuries were due to the careless actions of another.
Our law firm has managed numerous car accident cases, and we specialize in protecting drivers from liability as well as reaching successful car accident settlements. For more information, contact Maison Law today for a free, no-risk consultation and case evaluation. There are no upfront fees, and you don’t pay a cent until we’ve won your case.
