Uninsured Accident Claims
Being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver feels unfair—but you may still have options.
In Arizona, an estimated 11.9% of drivers were uninsured (about 1 in 8), so this situation is more common than it should be. We’ll explain how uninsured motorist claims work, what your policy may cover, and how we can help—starting with a free, no-pressure consultation.
What an uninsured motorist claim means in Arizona
UM vs. UIM, explained in plain language
An uninsured motorist (UM) claim usually applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance—or when it’s a hit-and-run and the driver can’t be identified. Underinsured motorist (UIM) claims apply when the other driver has insurance, but their limits aren’t enough to cover your losses. In both situations, you often turn to your own auto policy for UM/UIM coverage you’ve been paying for. The tricky part is that your insurer may still question fault, treatment, or the value of your injuries—so it can feel like you’re “proving” your case all over again. We help make the process clearer and more manageable, and we push for a result that matches the real impact of the crash.
Why these claims can get complicated
Your own insurance company may not make it easy
UM/UIM claims have technical steps and timing rules, and missing one can hurt your ability to recover. Arizona law also includes time limits and written notice requirements tied to UM/UIM benefits, so it’s smart to get clarity early.
- Coverage review: We help you understand what your policy actually includes (UM, UIM, limits, and how they stack up against your damages).
- Evidence and documentation: We help gather the records that matter—reports, medical documentation, wage loss, and proof of how the injury affects daily life.
- Negotiation and dispute help: If the insurer undervalues the claim, we handle the back-and-forth and present the claim in a clear, supported way.
- Exploring other options: If UM/UIM coverage is limited or unavailable, we look for other responsible parties or coverage sources when the facts support it.
Uninsured Accident Claims FAQs
Common questions, answered clearly
What if I get hit by an uninsured driver in Arizona?
You may be able to make a claim through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage if you have it. That claim is made with your own insurance company, and it can cover injuries and related losses up to your policy limits. The insurer may still investigate fault and damages, so good documentation matters. We can review your situation and tell you what your next step should be.
How do uninsured motorist claims work in AZ?
Most UM claims start with reporting the crash, getting medical care, and notifying the insurer that UM coverage may apply. After that, the insurer evaluates liability and the value of the claim based on records and evidence. Arizona also has legal time limits and notice requirements tied to UM/UIM claims, which is one reason it helps to get guidance early. We’ll help you keep the process organized and avoid preventable mistakes.
What if the other driver had some insurance, but it’s not enough?
That’s typically an underinsured motorist (UIM) situation. You may first resolve the claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer up to their limits, then pursue the remaining loss through your own UIM coverage. These claims often involve careful timing and written notice requirements under Arizona law. We can help coordinate the steps so you don’t leave coverage on the table.
Do I need a lawyer for an uninsured driver accident?
Not every case requires a lawyer, but many people benefit from at least a consultation—especially when injuries are serious, the insurer is disputing value, or deadlines are unclear. UM/UIM claims can feel frustrating because you’re dealing with your own insurer while trying to recover. We can tell you quickly whether we think legal help is likely to make a meaningful difference. If it’s not, we’ll say so.
How long do I have to file a UM/UIM claim in Arizona?
Deadlines can depend on the type of claim and the facts, but Arizona law includes UM/UIM time limits and requires written notice of intent within certain periods for UM/UIM benefits. Because missing a notice requirement can affect coverage, it’s wise to get clarity sooner rather than later—even if you’re not ready to “do everything” yet. We can walk through timing based on your specific situation.
Recorded-Statement Caution
Before you give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement, we’ll help you understand what it could mean for your claim.
Calm, Clear Next Steps
We’ll listen to what happened, explain your options in plain language, and help you choose a path forward without pressure.
What we do for uninsured, underinsured, and hit-and-run cases
Clear steps, steady communication, and a realistic plan
First, we’ll listen to what happened and ask a few practical questions—where the crash occurred, what injuries you’re dealing with, and what insurance information you have. Then we’ll review coverage and explain your next best step in plain language, including any written notice deadlines that may apply under Arizona law.
If you decide to hire us, we take over communication with the insurer, gather the supporting documents, and build a clear presentation of your damages. We’ll also be honest about what’s realistic in an uninsured-driver situation—because sometimes the best outcome comes from combining coverage sources (the other driver’s policy, your UIM, and any additional responsible parties) rather than relying on just one.
