Being injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver can be both financially and emotionally overwhelming. While you expect your auto insurance policy to offer protection, receiving a denied uninsured or underinsured motorist claim can be a frustrating setback. However, a denial doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your case—especially if your insurer wrongfully denied your claim. With strong legal support, you can still take steps toward receiving the compensation you deserve.
When Can You File a UM or UIM Claim?
UM/UIM coverage is part of many auto insurance policies and helps protect you after an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Similarly, underinsured motorist (UIM) covers when the driver has some insurance, but not enough to fully cover medical bills, lost income, or other damages.
This type of protection is essential when the at-fault driver cannot pay for your losses. Still, many policyholders don’t realize they have UM/UIM insurance coverage or understand when to use it.
You may qualify to use your UM/UIM coverage if:
- The at-fault driver had no insurance
- The other driver had limited insurance that didn’t cover your medical bills (a typical underinsured motorist claim)
- You were involved in a hit-and-run, and the driver was never found
- You were a cyclist, pedestrian, or passenger hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist
- You were driving someone else’s vehicle, but your motorist insurance included UM/UIM coverage
Even if you qualify for coverage, that doesn’t always mean your insurer will approve the claim.
Why UM/UIM Claims Are Often Denied
Even valid uninsured motorist claims can be challenging to process. Insurance companies may seek reasons to deny your claim, even if you’ve done everything correctly. Unfortunately, claim denials are far more common than most people expect.
Common reasons for denial include:
- The insurer says your policy excludes the type of accident that occurred
- You missed the deadline to report the crash
- The company argues the other driver wasn’t at fault
- Your injuries or medical records are questioned
- Important documents were incomplete or missing
For example, your insurer may deny your claim if it believes you caused the crash—even if the police report supports your side. If the insurance company denies your valid UIM claim, don’t assume you’re out of options. Consult with our car accident attorneys to explore your options!
How to Tell If Your Insurer Is Acting in Bad Faith
Under California law, insurance companies have a legal duty to handle claims honestly, fairly, and in good faith. When an insurer unfairly delays, undervalues, or denies your claim without proper justification, they may be acting in bad faith—a serious violation of your rights.
Here are common signs of bad faith behavior:
- Unreasonable delays in processing your claim
- Vague or shifting reasons for denying coverage
- Repeated demands for irrelevant or excessive paperwork
- Settlement offers far below what your medical bills and damages require
- Ignoring your calls, emails, or requests for updates
If your insurer engages in any of these tactics, they may have wrongfully denied your claim. Our legal team can help review your case, protect your rights, and hold the insurance company accountable under California bad faith laws.
What You Should Do If Your UM/UIM Claim Is Denied
If your uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim was denied, don’t lose hope. Many claims are denied for avoidable reasons, and there are steps you can take to challenge the decision and protect your right to compensation.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Review your case by reading through your insurance policy to confirm your UM/UIM coverage and understand any coverage limitations that may apply
- Gather supporting documents, including medical records, police reports, photos, witness statements, and all correspondence with your insurer.
- Request a written explanation from your insurance company that explains why the claim was denied.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the insurer without legal representation, as your words could be used to justify the denial.
- Consult a personal injury attorney who can evaluate your claim, identify bad faith practices, and guide you through your options.
- Consider legal action—such as arbitration or filing a lawsuit—if the insurance company refuses to resolve the claim fairly.
A denial doesn’t have to be the end. Taking the right steps now can help you move closer to the compensation you deserve.
What Happens If You Go to Arbitration or Court?
Many auto insurance policies require arbitration for uninsured or underinsured motorist disputes. Arbitration is a legal process where a neutral third party reviews the evidence and makes a decision.
Our attorneys will:
- Prepare your case thoroughly
- Present clear, compelling evidence
- Advocate on your behalf during arbitration or, if needed, in court
Whether your case involves arbitration or filing a lawsuit, we’ll stand by your side to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Timing Matters in Insurance Claim Disputes
There are strict time limits when challenging a denied uninsured or underinsured motorist claim. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to recover damages—even if the claim is valid.
You may be subject to:
- Deadlines outlined in your auto insurance policy
- Legal time limits for filing a lawsuit related to injury or breach of contract
For instance, if your policy requires notice within 30 days of the crash and you miss that deadline, your insurer could refuse to reconsider. Don’t risk it—review your case with our legal team before time runs out.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You Recover Compensation
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we stand up for injured victims whose valid uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims have been denied. If you were hurt in an accident and your insurance company refuses to pay, we can step in and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
Here’s how we help:
- We investigate your accident to uncover supporting key evidence, including medical records, crash reports, and witness statements.
- We take over communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to deal with delays, pressure, or confusing paperwork.
- We fight against wrongful denials and low settlement offers, making sure your injuries and losses are taken seriously.
- We’re ready to take legal action, including arbitration or filing a lawsuit if needed to secure justice.
- We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
If you’ve paid for motorist insurance, you deserve the full protection it promises. We’ll make sure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and your focus stays where it belongs—on healing.
Let Us Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve
A denied uninsured or underinsured motorist claim doesn’t have to leave you feeling helpless. If you’re unsure why your claim was denied, let us review your case at no cost. Our team is here to listen, guide you, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers today or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. We’ll answer your questions and help you take the next step toward justice.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should consult with an experienced attorney for advice on your specific situation.
