In Arizona: Who Pays When Drivers Have No Insurance
By Tina WestveerBicycle Accident, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Truck AccidentThe Reality of Uninsured Drivers
Most drivers assume the other person involved in a crash will have insurance. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Some drivers operate vehicles without coverage, while others carry only the minimum limits required by law.
In Arizona, the law requires drivers to carry liability insurance. However, minimum policies do not always cover the full cost of serious injuries. Medical care, lost income, and long term recovery can quickly exceed those limits.
Because of this risk, Arizona law requires insurance companies to offer additional types of protection when drivers purchase auto insurance.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage, often called UM coverage, is designed for situations where the at fault driver does not have insurance.
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 20-259.01, insurers that sell automobile liability policies must offer uninsured motorist coverage to drivers in writing. Drivers can decide whether to accept or decline this protection when they purchase their policy.
In simple terms, uninsured motorist coverage may apply when someone is injured in a crash caused by a driver who does not carry insurance.
What Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Arizona law also addresses underinsured motorist coverage, often called UIM coverage.
According to A.R.S. § 20-259.01(G), underinsured motorist coverage may apply when the total available liability insurance from the at fault driver is less than the injured person’s damages.
In practical terms, this situation may arise when the at fault driver has insurance, but the policy limits are not high enough to cover the full extent of the injuries.
Arizona law treats uninsured and underinsured coverage as separate protections. A.R.S. § 20-259.01(H) explains that these coverages apply to different accident situations.
What Happens in Hit and Run Crashes
Some crashes involve drivers who leave the scene and cannot be identified. These cases can be especially stressful for injured victims.
Arizona law recognizes that certain claims may involve unidentified vehicles. Under A.R.S. § 20-259.01(M), additional evidence may be required when there is no physical contact between vehicles. This evidence may include witness testimony or other information that helps confirm how the crash occurred.
Every situation is unique, and the details surrounding the crash can affect how insurance coverage is evaluated.
Why Insurance Details Matter
Many people do not look closely at their insurance policy until after a collision happens. Unfortunately, by that time the choices made when purchasing coverage can play a major role in how insurance applies.
Factors such as policy limits, number of vehicles on a policy, and coverage selections can all influence what protection may be available after an accident.
Understanding the basics of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help drivers better understand the risks that exist on Arizona roads.
Why Hire Fielding Law
After a crash, insurance questions can become complicated. Policies may contain detailed language and multiple types of coverage that apply differently depending on the circumstances. Fielding Law approaches every case with professionalism, civility, and kindness while helping injured clients understand their options. If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team committed to improving the lives of those they serve.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.









