Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But finding out that the other driver has no insurance can make the situation even worse. Unfortunately, many Arizona drivers are uninsured or underinsured — and if one of them causes your crash, you may wonder how you’ll get your medical bills and damages covered.
At Valley Injury Law, we help crash victims across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, and nearby areas recover compensation — even when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Here’s what you need to know if you’re hit by an uninsured driver in Arizona.
Arizona Requires Insurance — But Not Everyone Has It
Arizona law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage
Even though insurance is mandatory, many drivers either carry the bare minimum or let their policies lapse. When these drivers cause accidents, victims often face uphill battles trying to get compensation.
Your Options If the Other Driver Is Uninsured
If you’re in a crash and the at-fault driver has no insurance, you may still have options through your own policy or a personal injury claim.
1. Use Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is designed for exactly this situation. It helps cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering when you’re hit by a driver with no insurance.
In Arizona, UM coverage is optional — but strongly recommended. Many Valley drivers add it to their policy for peace of mind. Check your policy to see if you have this protection.
2. Use Your Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
Some drivers carry insurance, but not enough to cover serious injuries or multiple victims. In these cases, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage can help make up the difference.
UIM kicks in when the other driver’s policy limits are too low to pay your full damages. It can be used alongside the other driver’s insurance to ensure your expenses are covered.
3. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit Against the Driver
If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, you can sue the at-fault driver personally. However, collecting compensation this way can be difficult — especially if the driver has limited income or assets.
Your attorney can help you evaluate whether this is a realistic option based on the driver’s financial situation.
What UM/UIM Covers
- Emergency room visits and hospital bills
- Follow-up medical care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral expenses (in wrongful death cases)
This coverage applies whether you’re driving, walking, or riding as a passenger — as long as the uninsured driver was at fault.
What to Do After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
If you’re hit by someone without insurance in Arizona:
- Call 911 and report the crash
- Request a police report — it helps document that the other driver is uninsured
- Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries
- Notify your insurance company
- Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting quick settlements
- Contact a local car accident attorney for legal advice
How Valley Injury Law Helps
At Valley Injury Law, we handle cases involving uninsured and underinsured drivers across Arizona. Our team will:
- Review your insurance policy for available coverage
- Help you file a UM or UIM claim
- Negotiate directly with your insurance company
- File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if needed
- Build a personalized case strategy based on your injuries and losses
We offer free consultations and don’t charge fees unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the uninsured driver was at fault?
You may still recover compensation through your UM coverage or a lawsuit. An attorney can help determine your best path forward.
Can I sue an uninsured driver in Arizona?
Yes. You can file a personal injury lawsuit, but collecting compensation depends on the driver’s financial situation.
Will my insurance rates go up if I file a UM claim?
No — using UM coverage shouldn’t increase your rates if you weren’t at fault. It’s protection you’ve already paid for.
How long do I have to file a UM or personal injury claim?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Insurance claim deadlines may vary, so it’s best to act quickly.