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Umbrella insurance gives you extra protection when your basic coverage isn’t enough. It takes over after your auto, homeowners, or renters insurance reaches its limit. This type of policy helps cover medical bills, legal fees, and damage claims that would otherwise come out of your pocket.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we explain how umbrella insurance works and why it matters. If an uninsured driver injured you or you’re unsure which policies apply, we can help you figure it out. Our team investigates all insurance sources and works hard to recover every dollar you deserve. Understanding umbrella insurance could protect your finances and shape the outcome of your case.
Umbrella insurance is a type of excess liability insurance that adds an extra layer of protection to your existing coverage. It doesn’t replace your current auto or homeowners insurance—it extends it. When a serious accident or lawsuit goes beyond the limits of your primary policies, umbrella insurance helps cover the remaining costs.
Think of it like a safety net. If you cause a multi-car accident or someone sues you after getting injured on your property, your basic coverage might only go so far. Once that coverage runs out, your umbrella policy takes over and pays the additional amount—up to the policy’s limit. Most umbrella policies start at $1 million in coverage, and some go much higher.
This type of insurance protects your savings, home, future earnings, and other assets from being wiped out by a major liability claim. It’s especially useful if you’re responsible for damages that exceed normal expectations, such as a serious motorcycle crash or a lawsuit involving multiple injured people.
Unlike basic coverage, umbrella insurance can apply to more than one policy. A single umbrella plan may cover your auto, homeowners, and even rental property insurance. That flexibility makes it one of the smartest tools for personal liability protection.
Most standard insurance policies include strict coverage limits. In serious accidents, those limits can run out fast. As a result, if you’re responsible for a crash involving multiple injuries or major property damage, your auto or homeowners policy might not come close to covering the total cost. That’s exactly when umbrella insurance can protect you. It adds financial support after your main policy reaches its cap, which helps you avoid personal losses.
For example, let’s say your auto policy has a $250,000 liability limit, but the court awards $900,000 in damages. Your umbrella insurance could cover the remaining $650,000. Without that additional layer, you would need to pay the balance yourself. These situations happen more often than most people realize—especially in accidents involving long-term injuries, multiple victims, or extensive medical care. If you were hit by an underinsured driver, umbrella insurance could be the only way to recover what you’re truly owed.
Umbrella insurance provides value to nearly everyone. However, it’s especially important for people with higher exposure to risk. If any of the descriptions below sound like you, this type of policy can make a big difference:
If you fall into one of these categories, umbrella insurance offers peace of mind. More importantly, it protects your finances and future from unexpected lawsuits or liability claims. Since this policy covers multiple types of risks under one contract, you also save money compared to increasing each policy separately.
Umbrella insurance covers a wide range of liability claims that go beyond your standard policies. It steps in after you exhaust the limits of your auto, homeowners, or renters insurance. This makes it especially helpful in serious injury cases, high-dollar property damage, or lawsuits that involve multiple people. Because of this broad coverage, umbrella insurance plays a vital role in protecting your savings, home, and future income.
Here are some of the most common situations umbrella insurance covers:
Additionally, umbrella insurance often applies worldwide. So, if something happens while you’re traveling abroad, your policy may still provide protection. This feature adds even more value, especially for those who travel frequently or rent out property to others.
While umbrella insurance adds important protection, it does not cover everything. To avoid confusion, here are a few things umbrella policies typically exclude:
Because these policies are designed to protect you from large, unexpected liability—not routine claims—it’s important to understand where umbrella coverage starts and stops. If you’re unsure how your policy works, or whether the at-fault party in your accident carried umbrella coverage, our team can help. We’ve handled cases where finding that extra layer of insurance made all the difference in a client’s recovery. Visit our page on dealing with insurance companies to learn more about how we investigate every available policy in your case.
Despite its high coverage limits, umbrella insurance is one of the most cost-effective types of protection available. Most policies start at around $150 to $300 per year for $1 million in coverage. Additional coverage usually comes at an even lower cost per million, making it an easy way to expand your protection without breaking the bank.
For example, raising the liability limits on your auto and homeowners policies individually could cost hundreds more each year. Instead of increasing those limits one by one, an umbrella policy boosts all of them at once. This approach not only saves money but also simplifies your insurance plan. In just one step, you gain broader and deeper coverage across multiple policies.
Because umbrella insurance is designed to cover only the most serious claims, insurance companies see it as low-risk. As a result, they can offer generous coverage for a relatively small premium. For anyone who owns a home, drives frequently, or has a teen behind the wheel, the cost is minimal compared to the financial losses you might face without it.
We often talk with clients who assume umbrella policies are expensive or only for wealthy families. In reality, many working-class drivers, landlords, and small business owners carry umbrella insurance for peace of mind. If you’ve been involved in a serious car accident or a slip and fall, an umbrella policy may be the only thing that keeps a lawsuit from draining your savings.
Understanding how umbrella insurance works is helpful, but seeing it in action brings real clarity. Below are a few real-world examples that show how this coverage can protect you when the unexpected happens. These situations are based on actual cases we’ve seen and outcomes we’ve helped our clients achieve.
A Sacramento driver caused a multi-vehicle accident that injured several people, including a child who required surgery and ongoing care. The at-fault driver’s auto insurance maxed out at $300,000, but the total damages exceeded $900,000. Fortunately, the driver had a $1 million umbrella policy, which paid the difference. Without it, the driver would have faced personal lawsuits and wage garnishment. In cases like these, umbrella coverage protects both parties—the at-fault driver and the injured victims who deserve full compensation.
A tenant’s dog bit a guest, resulting in permanent scarring. The landlord was named in the lawsuit, even though they didn’t own the dog. The homeowner’s policy only covered $100,000, but the guest’s medical costs and emotional distress claim totaled over $350,000. Because the landlord carried umbrella coverage, the extra $250,000 was paid without jeopardizing their property or personal assets. Premises liability cases like this are more common than most people think.
After a heated exchange, one individual posted false accusations about a neighbor online. The neighbor filed a defamation suit and won a $200,000 judgment. The defendant’s umbrella insurance policy covered the legal defense and paid the damages. Without it, the person would have had to liquidate savings or file for bankruptcy. Lawsuits like this aren’t always tied to physical injuries—umbrella coverage also protects your reputation and livelihood in personal injury claims involving libel or slander.
If you’re involved in a case like this—or you’re not sure what coverage applies—it’s important to speak with a lawyer. We often discover umbrella policies that other attorneys miss. Our team has experience identifying these extra layers of protection and using them to maximize the recovery our clients receive. For more examples of how we fight for clients in tough insurance cases, visit our page on personal injury claims against the State of California.
After a serious accident, most people only look at the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy. However, there may be more coverage available—if you know where to look. Many individuals and businesses carry umbrella insurance through a different company than their primary insurer. These extra policies don’t always appear in initial insurance disclosures, and some insurers may not offer them up unless asked directly. That’s why working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is so important.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we conduct detailed investigations into every possible insurance source. We don’t stop at the minimum limits. Instead, we look for umbrella policies, excess coverage, and other hidden protections that could dramatically increase your settlement or award. If the liable party owns multiple properties, works in a high-risk field, or has significant assets, there’s a good chance they carry umbrella insurance—and we know how to find it.
Our legal team works with adjusters, subpoenas, and court orders to uncover all applicable insurance. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to protect their bottom line, and we push back when they fail to disclose important coverage. If you’ve been injured in a California ATV accident, moped crash, or boating accident, you may be entitled to far more compensation than the base policy shows.
Most importantly, we don’t take shortcuts. We take the time to find every policy and every coverage option available to help you recover as fully as possible. If another law firm told you the coverage was limited, get a second opinion. We’re here to help you understand your rights and uncover all the resources available for your recovery.
Umbrella insurance offers powerful protection that’s often overlooked. It steps in when your standard policies fall short, covering serious injuries, legal defense costs, and high-dollar claims that could otherwise drain your savings. Whether you own a home, drive daily, or simply want peace of mind, umbrella coverage gives you a smart and affordable way to safeguard your future.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we’ve helped many clients recover more than they thought possible—simply because we took the time to uncover every layer of insurance. From bicycle accidents to auto collisions and premises liability cases, we investigate every case thoroughly and fight for full compensation.
If you’re unsure whether umbrella insurance applies to your case, we’re here to help. Contact our Sacramento legal team today for a free consultation. There’s no fee until we win your case. Let us help you understand your options and protect your rights after an accident.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. However, learning that the other driver has no insurance—or too little—can quickly turn confusion into panic. California ranks among the top states for uninsured and underinsured drivers. Even if someone carries the legal minimum, that coverage often isn’t enough. Medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs can pile up fast.
If you’re unsure what to do after an uninsured motorist accident in California, you’re not alone. Many drivers face this challenge, especially after serious collisions. Fortunately, legal options are available—and you may have more protection than you think.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we help injured drivers, passengers, and families across Sacramento and nearby areas pursue full compensation. Whether the at-fault driver had no insurance, not enough, or fled in a hit-and-run, we know how to handle uninsured and underinsured motorist claims (UM/UIM) in California. We also fight back when your own insurance company delays or underpays a valid claim.
Key Takeaways
- California has one of the highest rates of uninsured and underinsured drivers, which puts responsible drivers at financial risk after a crash.
- Uninsured motorists carry no insurance, while underinsured drivers don’t carry enough to cover serious injury or damage.
- UM/UIM coverage helps you recover damages through your own policy when the at-fault driver can’t pay. Many drivers don’t know they have it.
- UM/UIM claims can include compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and long-term care costs.
- Even though you’re dealing with your own insurer, the claims process can be difficult—delays, disputes, and lowball offers are common.
- In California, you usually have two years to file a personal injury claim, but UM/UIM policies may include shorter deadlines.
- The Choyce Law Firm helps Sacramento-area victims file strong UM/UIM claims and pursue the full compensation they deserve—with no fee unless we win.
After a crash, understanding whether the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured can make a big difference in how your claim is handled. While these terms sound similar, California law treats them differently—and knowing the distinction helps protect your rights and guide your next steps.
An uninsured motorist is someone who drives without any auto insurance. This is a direct violation of California law. In some cases, the driver may have allowed their policy to lapse. Other times, they may never have purchased insurance in the first place. Hit-and-run drivers are also treated as uninsured under California’s insurance code.
If you’ve been hit by someone with no insurance—or a driver who fled the scene—your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may be the only way to recover damages. For this reason, it’s important to review your auto policy closely after any crash.
An underinsured motorist has insurance, but not enough to cover the full cost of the accident. In California, the minimum coverage required by law is:
These amounts may seem like a lot, but they disappear quickly in a serious accident. For example, a hospital stay, surgery, and physical therapy can easily exceed $50,000. If the at-fault driver’s policy doesn’t cover your losses, your underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can help bridge the gap.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we help clients understand their policies and pursue the full compensation available—even when the other driver’s insurance falls short.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can be a financial lifesaver after an accident—especially when the at-fault driver can’t pay. While California doesn’t require drivers to carry UM/UIM insurance, state law does require insurance companies to offer it. Many drivers have this coverage and don’t even realize it.
UM/UIM coverage protects you when the driver who caused the crash either has no insurance or doesn’t have enough to pay for your losses. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver—or someone who flees the scene—you can file a claim with your own insurance company under your UM policy. If the driver has insurance but not enough to cover your total damages, your UIM coverage can cover the difference.
This coverage typically includes compensation for:
No, but insurers must offer it—and they must document if you reject it. That means there’s a good chance you already have it included in your policy. If you’re not sure, ask your insurance company for a copy of your declarations page.
Because medical costs and lost income can rise quickly after a crash, this coverage often becomes essential in recovering full compensation. At The Choyce Law Firm, we work with clients to evaluate their policy coverage and help them file UM/UIM claims the right way.
When you’re hit by an uninsured driver, what you do next can make a major difference in your ability to recover compensation. Even though the other driver may not have insurance, you still need to treat the situation seriously and protect your legal rights. The steps you take now will directly affect the strength of your uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) claim.
Always report the accident to law enforcement. A police report creates an official record of the crash and documents key details, including whether the at-fault driver had insurance. If the other driver fled the scene, the report also supports your claim as a hit-and-run victim, which qualifies as an uninsured motorist case under California law.
Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries—like concussions or internal damage—may take hours or days to appear. Prompt care not only protects your health, but also creates documentation linking your injuries to the accident. If you’re unsure whether to take an ambulance, see our page on whether you should ride in an ambulance after a crash.
If it’s safe, take photos of the damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of witnesses. If the other driver admits fault or lacks insurance, write that down. The more information you collect, the stronger your claim will be.
Let your insurer know about the crash as soon as possible. However, avoid giving a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer. Insurance companies often use early statements to limit or deny coverage. Learn more about this risk on our page about dealing with insurance companies.
Even though you’re dealing with your own insurance company, the process can still be difficult. Providers may question your injuries, argue that you were at fault, or delay payment. At The Choyce Law Firm, we know how to handle these tactics and will deal with the insurance companies on your behalf while you focus on recovery.
Filing an uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim in California might sound simple, but the process is rarely straightforward. Even though the claim goes through your own insurance company, that doesn’t mean they’ll pay without a fight. Insurance companies still look for ways to reduce what they owe—or deny the claim altogether.
You’ll start by notifying your insurer of the accident and stating that the at-fault driver lacked sufficient coverage. This may include proof that the other driver had no insurance or only carried minimum liability limits. In hit-and-run cases, a police report showing the driver fled the scene is usually enough to trigger UM benefits.
Your insurer will likely ask for a wide range of documents. Be prepared to submit:
It’s critical that your documentation clearly shows how the accident occurred, who was at fault, and how the injuries and losses affect your life. Any gaps or unclear evidence could be used to delay or deny your claim.
Even though this is your own policy, your insurer still treats the case like any other liability claim. They may challenge how the crash happened, argue that your injuries aren’t serious, or offer a low settlement. If they delay communication, deny responsibility, or undervalue your losses, you’ll need legal support to push back.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we manage the entire UM/UIM process on your behalf—from gathering documents and proving liability to negotiating with your insurance company and filing suit if necessary.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims can provide financial relief when the at-fault driver can’t fully cover your losses. In California, this type of claim allows you to recover many of the same damages you would pursue in a regular personal injury lawsuit. The key difference is that you’re collecting from your own insurance policy rather than someone else’s.
If your claim is successful, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:
In the case of fatal accidents, UM/UIM coverage may also provide wrongful death compensation for surviving family members. This can include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
It’s important to calculate the full value of your losses before accepting any settlement. Insurance companies may offer a quick payout that doesn’t come close to covering your long-term needs. At The Choyce Law Firm, we review every case closely, factoring in future care, lost earning potential, and the emotional impact of your injuries. Our goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation allowed under your policy.
Even though you’re filing a claim with your own insurance company, uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) cases are rarely simple. Insurance companies still look for ways to reduce what they pay. They may question liability, downplay your injuries, or delay your claim. Without legal guidance, you could end up accepting less than you deserve.
An experienced personal injury attorney can level the playing field. From gathering evidence to negotiating a fair settlement, a lawyer handles every step of the process. Your legal team can challenge lowball offers, bring in medical experts, and file a lawsuit if your insurer refuses to pay. For victims dealing with physical pain, lost income, and mounting bills, having the right representation makes a real difference.
There’s also a deadline to act. In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, some UM/UIM insurance policies impose shorter deadlines for filing a claim. That’s why it’s critical to get legal advice as early as possible. To understand how deadlines work in your case, visit our page on the statute of limitations.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we have years of experience handling UM/UIM cases throughout Sacramento and Northern California. We know how to deal with insurance companies—and we don’t get paid unless we win for you.
If you’ve been hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver in California, don’t wait to find out what your options are. These claims can be complex, and insurance companies are rarely on your side. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of recovering the full compensation you deserve.
At The Choyce Law Firm, we have helped countless victims across Sacramento recover after accidents with uninsured drivers. We take the time to understand your case, review your insurance policy, and deal directly with the insurance companies so you don’t have to. With our contingency fee model, you pay nothing unless we win.
To speak with an experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney, call (916) 306-0636 or send us a message through our contact page. We’re here to fight for you and help you move forward with confidence.
The Choyce Law Firm This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Understanding California automobile insurance policies is essential—not just to stay legal, but to protect yourself financially in case of an accident. Many drivers don’t realize how quickly insurance limits can be maxed out, especially when multiple people are injured. That’s why knowing the difference between per person, per occurrence, and aggregate limits could make or break your financial future.
In California, the law mandates that every driver carry at least the following minimum liability coverage:
While these amounts meet the legal requirements, they may not be enough if you’re involved in a serious accident. That’s why it’s critical to understand how your insurance policy works—and when you might need legal help.
An aggregate limit is the total amount your insurance policy will pay out over the course of a policy period, typically one year.
Example: If your policy has a $1,000,000 aggregate limit and you’re in two accidents—one in January with $800,000 in damages and another in July with $500,000 in damages—your insurance will only pay $200,000 toward the second accident. Why? Because you’ve already used $800,000 of your $1,000,000 limit.
A per occurrence limit is the maximum your policy will pay for a single accident, regardless of how many people are involved or the extent of the damage.
Example: Let’s say your policy has a $300,000 per occurrence limit. If you cause a 10-car pile-up that results in $1,000,000 in total damages, your policy will only pay a maximum of $300,000. That amount may be split among multiple injured parties based on the insurer’s discretion.
A per person limit caps the amount your policy will pay to any single individual injured in an accident.
Example: In the same 10-car pile-up, two people suffer major injuries with medical bills of $300,000 each. If your per person limit is only $50,000, then each of those individuals can only recover up to $50,000 from your policy—regardless of their actual losses.
Insurance companies are in business to protect their own bottom line, not necessarily to fully compensate accident victims. When insurance limits are too low, the injured party may seek damages directly from your personal assets—or you may not get enough to cover your own medical bills if you’re the victim.
This is where having a knowledgeable injury attorney can make a major difference.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Sacramento, don’t go up against the insurance companies alone. Even if you’re unsure who was at fault or didn’t collect all the right information at the scene, The Choyce Law Firm can help.
Our experienced legal team knows how to navigate complex personal injury claims, negotiate with insurers, and secure the maximum payout available for your damages.
One of the best ways to protect yourself after an accident is to get trusted legal representation. At The Choyce Law Firm, our Sacramento injury attorney has years of experience handling auto accident claims—and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
Call us today at (916) 306-0636 for a FREE consultation.
We’ll handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Filing an insurance claim can be a stressful and uncertain process, especially when you’re dealing with injuries from a car accident, property damage, or other unexpected losses. One of the most pressing questions many people have is, “How long will it take for the insurance company to respond?” While the timeline for response can vary depending on the type of claim, your location, and the insurer’s policies, there are laws in place to ensure insurance companies handle claims in a timely and fair manner. Understanding these timelines is critical to managing expectations and taking the right steps to protect your rights. For those struggling with delays, our page on dealing with insurance companies offers additional insight.
When filing an insurance claim, understanding the timelines insurers must follow can help you manage expectations and ensure they are acting within their legal obligations. While these timeframes can vary by state and type of insurance, they are designed to ensure claims are handled promptly and fairly.
Insurance companies generally follow a structured process when handling claims, with specific deadlines at each stage:
Acknowledgment of the Claim
Investigation of the Claim
Acceptance or Denial of the Claim
Issuing Payment (if applicable)
California has some of the strictest regulations to protect policyholders. Under the California Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations, insurers must:
These timelines ensure that claims are handled in a timely manner and that policyholders are kept informed throughout the process. For additional details about timelines and legal strategy, review our page on statute of limitations in personal injury cases.
If an insurer fails to meet these deadlines, it could be a violation of state law. You may have the right to file a complaint with your state’s insurance regulatory agency or consult an attorney to explore potential legal action for bad faith practices. This is especially important if your claim involves complex circumstances, such as a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Understanding these timeframes empowers you to hold insurance companies accountable and ensures that you receive the attention and resolution you deserve. If you’re facing delays or challenges with your claim, seeking legal guidance can help you navigate the process effectively. Visit our Our Firm page to learn more about how we can support you, or contact us directly for help with your case.
If you have been injured in a car, truck or motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, regardless of the nature of the underlying accident, it is important to contact experienced Sacramento auto accident attorney at The Choyce Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We have offices in Sacramento & Fairfield, CA for your convenience and have the resources and expertise to aggressively litigate your case in court, fighting to get you just compensation for your injury.
Call (916) 306-0636 today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyer in Sacramento regarding your injury case.
The Choyce Law Firm
1438 Del Paso Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 306-0636
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
Under California law, an insurance company is given the ability to decide what perils it covers and under what circumstances. Policies cannot legally be marketed under false pretenses, but also are not required to contain all the perils you may require coverage for. Damage caused by wind and hail is usually covered under both homeowners and renters insurance policies (though earthquake is not!). If you have questions regarding your specific insurance policy, speak with a Sacramento accident lawyer.
If damage occurs, it is always important to contact your insurance company to report any damage and schedule a visit from a claims adjuster as soon as possible. You should make any necessary temporary repairs to prevent further damage, but hold off on any permanent repairs until a claims adjuster has visited your home and completed their inspection. It is also very important to keep records of all costs caused by the initial incident, in addition to any resultant costs, including but not limited to the following:
These additional costs are covered only when directly resulting from the winds. If a hole is created in the roof of your home by a repairman attempting to fix the initial damage due to wind, and a rainstorm comes and causes water damage to the interior of your home, the insurance company may not cover it as it was a result of the repairman’s actions and not directly caused by the wind damage. However, if the water damage is caused by negligence on the repairman’s behalf, it may be covered by the contractor’s general liability insurance policy. Every case is unique and only an experienced Sacramento accident lawyer can advise you on the best legal action.
Some damages from windstorms may not be initially obvious – check the following after serious storms that carry the potential for wind damage:
Important questions to ask your insurance representative when filing a claim:
When the claims adjuster visits your home, he or she will assess the severity of the damage, inform you of the materials and labor necessary to fix the damage, and determine how much money you should receive due to the damage.
It’s not a bad idea to have an independent company assess the damage, especially if you feel your claims adjustor did not complete a thorough investigation or feel your insurance company has not properly accounted for the costs of repair. And it’s always a great idea to consult with a Sacramento accident lawyer.
If there is an issue with the insurance company delaying, denying, or underpaying a claim, you can file an insurance bad faith lawsuit.
It is important to keep this option in mind from the beginning – you’ll want to keep close records of all correspondence with the insurance company, and the times of such correspondence. There is a time limit for filing an insurance bad faith lawsuit – the suit must be filed within a year of the initial damage.
If you have sustained serious wind damage to your home or other property, and someone has been hurt as a result, you should consult with a Sacramento accident lawyer immediately. An experienced attorney will be able to properly deal with the insurance company for you and help get you the compensation you deserve. If you have already gone through the claims process and feel cheated, we can help ensure your case is reviewed and responsible parties are held accountable.
Have you or someone you know been injured or had property damaged due to dangerous winds? Contact a Sacramento accident lawyer for a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”
California has more laws to protect insurance policyholders than any other state in the country. Unfortunately, this does not necessarily stop insurance companies from doing whatever they can to limit payouts and increase profits. In order to have a decent chance of receiving the compensation to which you are entitled, it’s important to understand your rights and the procedures in dealing with an insurance company. Speak to a Sacramento personal injury lawyer regarding your specific case.
The most important law to remember is that your insurance company is legally obligated to act in “good faith.” It has a duty to investigate, process, and deal with you fairly and to pay your claim fully, promptly and in your best interest.
Basic negotiating will resolve most insurance disputes. The following list is meant to serve as a guideline for how to deal with an insurance company:
Truly the best thing you can do when dealing with an insurance company is to have a knowledgeable and motivated law group on your side. The laws and proceedings can be complicated and missing a single deadline may jeopardize your ability to receive compensation.
When you choose to work with an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer, you’re not just hiring a legal representative; you’re securing a partner who will advocate for your best interests every step of the way. Here are a few reasons why partnering with us can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case:
Following an auto accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights and strengthen your case:
Consult with a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer: Contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident is crucial. We can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and ensure that you are taking the right steps towards securing the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of another, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. The Choyce Law Firm is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need. With our experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyers by your side, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands. We’re committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Don’t let the insurance companies dictate the outcome of your case. Contact The Choyce Law Firm today at (916) 306-0636 to schedule a consultation. Let us take on the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Together, we can work towards securing a future that reflects the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve.
This is my second time hiring Mr. Choyce for my son, who was charged with a criminal act. Both times that I hired Mr. Choyce, I was very impressed with his knowledge of the law, his professionalism, and the fact that he was relatable. He is trustworthy, tells you the truth about what you are facing. He is organized, he is a very good listener, came up with strategies that were appealing.I can’t say enough good about Mr. Choyce! I knew that he was going to give my son’s case everything he had, and he did!
Hiring the Choyce Law Firm was the best decision I made while trying to decide what to do after getting charged with a 3rd DUI. I tried to use a lawyer that I had previously used when in trouble with the law, he was near retirement and wasn’t able to give my case the attention I was looking for understanding that I was facing jail time. When contacting Mr Choyce we discussed my case and he told me he could help, he even knew my previous attorney. Mr Choyce was aggressive in fighting my case with filing motions on my behalf an trying to get my case dismissed, I was very pleased that he was not just looking to get the first deal the D.A. offered but was aggressively trying to win my case. Although we were not able to get the dismissal we were looking for he was able to keep me out of jail an I was able to serve my sentence on the EHD Program, which allowed me to keep my job an that was very important to me. Mr Choyce also handled a second case for me, I was charged with driving on a suspended license and no registration. Once again Mr Choyce was aggressive with this case and took it to trail an was able to get a not guilty verdict, which saved me a great deal of money in fines that would be pending with a guilty verdict. Overall hiring Mr Choyce and his team was the best decision I made, he provided great service at a respectable rate, an explained things as they were happening and with the charges I was facing I was very happy with the outcome of my cases that he handled. I would strongly recommend Mr Choyce and his team to anyone I know that needs legal representation he knows the law and will provide you with the best service you could hope for form a lawyer that wants to win.
“This is my second time using Mr. Choyce, and I would choose no one other than him. Both times that I hired him, it was for my son, and they were very serious cases. Mr. Choyce is smart, professional, practical, and relatable. He is a serious person, who listens, speaks in laymens terms, so that you understand what is going on. Not like some that I have experience, who talk over you, and dont take the time to really answer your questions.The second case got very close to going to trial, however, I was confident that I had the best of the best representing my son. Thank God that after willing to go to trial, we got a deal that, I think was a win win.I would definitely, without a question, hire Mr. Choyce again!”