Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. Finding out the other driver does not have insurance can make the situation even more overwhelming. Unfortunately, uninsured drivers remain a real problem across Glendale — from crashes on Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) to busy intersections along Glendale Avenue, 59th Avenue, and near Westgate Entertainment District.
If you were hit by an uninsured driver in Glendale, Arizona, you still have options. Understanding how uninsured motorist claims work can protect your financial future.
The team at Valley Injury Law, serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, Glendale, and surrounding Arizona communities, explains what you need to know.
Is Uninsured Driving Common in Arizona?
Despite state laws requiring liability insurance, many drivers still operate vehicles without coverage. Some drivers allow their policies to lapse. Others never purchase insurance at all.
When an uninsured driver causes an accident, they are personally responsible for the damages. However, many uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay out of pocket. That is where uninsured motorist coverage becomes critical.
What Is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if:
- The at-fault driver has no insurance
- The at-fault driver cannot be identified (such as in a hit-and-run accident)
Although Arizona does not require drivers to carry UM coverage, insurance companies must offer it when you purchase a policy. Many drivers include it for added protection.
UM coverage can pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Other injury-related damages
It essentially steps in as if the uninsured driver had carried insurance.
What About Underinsured Drivers?
Sometimes the at-fault driver carries insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover your damages. This situation involves underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage.
For example, if your injuries total $100,000 and the at-fault driver only carries $25,000 in liability coverage, your UIM policy may cover the remaining damages up to your policy limits.
A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer Phoenix and Glendale residents trust can review your policy and determine what coverage applies.
How Insurance Companies Handle UM Claims
Many people assume their own insurance company will automatically treat them fairly. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
When you file an uninsured motorist claim, your insurer may:
- Question the severity of your injuries
- Dispute fault
- Delay the investigation
- Offer a low settlement
Even though you pay premiums, your insurance company still aims to minimize payouts.
At Valley Injury Law, we handle uninsured and underinsured motorist claims aggressively to ensure our clients receive fair compensation.
Arizona’s Comparative Negligence Rule Still Applies
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means if the insurance company claims you share fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total recovery would be reduced by 20%.
Strong evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical documentation, helps protect your claim.
A skilled car accident attorney Scottsdale and Glendale residents rely on can challenge unfair fault allegations.
What to Do After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
If you are involved in a crash with an uninsured driver in Glendale:
Call 911 and request a police report. This documentation is critical.
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
Exchange information and confirm whether the other driver has valid insurance.
Notify your insurance company about the accident.
Avoid giving recorded statements without speaking to an attorney.
Contact an experienced injury attorney near me to review your policy and protect your rights.
Taking these steps quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your claim.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, you may recover compensation for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Ongoing medical care
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
If the uninsured driver has personal assets, you may also pursue a direct claim against them. However, most cases rely on UM or UIM coverage.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Uninsured motorist claims can become complicated. You are essentially negotiating with your own insurance company, which may resist paying the full value of your claim.
An experienced personal injury lawyer Phoenix accident victims trust can:
- Review your insurance policy
- Determine available coverage
- Gather evidence
- Negotiate aggressively
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Having strong legal guidance levels the playing field.
Why Choose Valley Injury Law?
At Valley Injury Law, we proudly represent injury victims throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, Glendale, and nearby communities.
When you hire our firm, you receive:
- Direct access to your attorney
- Personalized legal strategy
- Aggressive insurance negotiation
- No upfront fees — you pay nothing unless we win
- Deep knowledge of Arizona injury law and Maricopa County courts
We understand how stressful it feels to learn the at-fault driver has no insurance. Our goal is to help you move forward with confidence and financial security.
FAQs About What to Know About Uninsured Drivers in Glendale, AZ
What happens if I’m hit by an uninsured driver in Glendale?
You may file a claim under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which helps pay for medical expenses and other damages.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Arizona?
Insurance companies must offer UM coverage, but drivers can decline it in writing.
Can I still recover compensation without UM coverage?
Possibly, but it may be more difficult if the at-fault driver lacks assets.
Should I contact a lawyer after an uninsured driver accident?
Yes. An attorney can help protect your rights and pursue available compensation.
Protect Yourself From Uninsured Drivers
Uninsured drivers create serious risks for responsible motorists in Glendale. The good news is that you may still have options for recovery under your own policy.
If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, Valley Injury Law is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call today at (480) 490-9535 to schedule your free consultation!