Why You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California: Protect Yourself from the Unexpected 

Have you ever wondered if adding uninsured motorist coverage to your car insurance in California is worth it? California’s highways connect you to opportunity, adventure, and—unfortunately—risk. You might be the most cautious driver around, but you share the road with countless others whose choices could impact your safety and your wallet.  

California consistently ranks among states with the highest rates of uninsured drivers, significantly above the national average. Even with insurance requirements in place, not everyone follows the rules. That can leave you exposed to financial hardship after a car accident if you aren’t properly covered.  

Learn more about how to get the right level of coverage at an affordable price. 

The Protective Shield: What Are the Benefits of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California? 

Let’s set the scene: you’re stopped at a red light, radio humming, when another car crashes into your car. The driver steps out, sheepish and apologetic, but admits they are an uninsured driver. Suddenly, your world tilts. Who’s going to pay for your medical bills, your car repairs, and your time off work? 

Uninsured motorist insurance in California is designed for these very moments. When the at-fault driver has no insurance or disappears after a hit-and-run accident, this coverage steps in as your financial shield. It can pay for: 

• Medical bills for you and your passengers 

• Lost wages if you’re unable to work 

• Pain and suffering 

• Repairs to your vehicle (if you have uninsured motorist property damage coverage) 

• Expenses from hit-and-run accidents 

Medical costs in California can skyrocket quickly. An ambulance ride alone can cost thousands, and that’s just the beginning. Hospital stays, physical therapy, and ongoing care can add up to a staggering sum. Without uninsured motorist coverage in California, you could be left scrambling to cover these expenses out of your own pocket. 

It’s not just about medical care, either. If your car is totaled or needs significant repairs, uninsured motorist property damage coverage can help you get back on the road without draining your savings. If you’re forced to miss work because of your injuries, this coverage can help replace lost income.  

In short, uninsured motorist coverage in California is about more than just fixing your car—it’s about protecting your quality of life. 

Going Beyond the Basics: Underinsured Motorist Coverage Explained 

Not every driver who causes a crash is completely uninsured. Many carry only the minimum liability limits required by California law. Since January, these limits are $30,000 per person/$60,000 per accident for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage.  

However, even the new limits may not be enough to cover the full costs of a serious accident. Getting full coverage can help. You can also choose different coverage areas to cover the risks you worry about most. 

This is especially important in California, where medical bills and car repair costs can easily surpass the minimum liability insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage acts as a crucial safety net, ensuring you’re not left with a mountain of debt just because someone else didn’t have enough insurance coverage. 

The Decision Is Yours: How Do You Decide If You Need Extra Coverage? 

Insurance companies in California are required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance, but you can decline it in writing. Should you? With so many drivers on the road who are either uninsured or underinsured, the risk is real. Even a minor accident can leave you with bills that far exceed what the other driver can pay. The cost of this coverage is low – about 5% of your total insurance bill. 

Evaluate your unique situation. Could you handle paying for your medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs if the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance? For many, the answer is a resounding no. Uninsured motorist insurance isn’t just a smart move—it’s a layer of protection that can save you from years of financial stress. 

There’s another angle to consider, too. Even if you have health insurance, it likely won’t cover everything after a car accident. Deductibles, co-pays, and non-medical expenses like lost wages or pain and suffering can still leave you financially vulnerable. Uninsured motorist coverage fills those gaps, providing a more complete safety net. 

Securing Your Safety Net: How Can You Get UM/UIM Coverage in California? 

Adding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage—also called UM/UIM coverage—to your auto insurance policy is straightforward. Most insurance companies include it by default, matching your liability limits unless you specifically decline it in writing.  

For the strongest protection, consider setting your UM/UIM limits as high as your liability coverage. This way, you’re covered for the same amounts you’d be responsible for if you caused an accident. 

Shopping for this coverage is simple. Ask your insurance agent to review your current policy and explain your uninsured and underinsured motorist options. Make sure you understand your liability limits and how much bodily injury coverage and property damage coverage you have. If you’re not sure what you need, a knowledgeable agent can help you find the right balance between protection and affordability. 

Stay Protected—Get a Free Insurance Quote Today! 

Uninsured and underinsured drivers are a reality on California roads. Don’t let someone else’s mistake drain your savings or threaten your financial security. Uninsured motorist coverage in California can protect you from surprise bills, lost wages, and car repairs.  

Cost-U-Less Insurance makes it easy to get insurance coverage that fits your budget and your schedule. Contact Cost-U-Less at (800) 390-4071 or get a fast car insurance quote online.  You can also find a Cost-U-Less office near you for a free, no-obligation quote.  Drive with confidence, knowing you’re protected from the unexpected. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California 

How much uninsured motorist coverage should you get in California? 

It’s wise to set your uninsured motorist coverage limits at least equal to your liability limits. With new minimum coverage amounts in California, matching those numbers is a solid starting point. Many drivers choose even higher limits for extra peace of mind, especially if they have family members or assets to protect.  

The right amount for you depends on your circumstances. But more coverage generally means more protection. 

Can I rely solely on my health insurance instead of UM coverage? 

Relying solely on health insurance could expose you to significant out-of-pocket expenses. Health insurance may help with some medical costs, but it won’t cover lost wages, pain and suffering, or car repairs.  

Uninsured motorist coverage in California is designed to fill all those gaps. It provides a much bigger safety net after a car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.