Legal Question in Insurance Law in California

autmobile accidents and uninsured drivers

I was recently involved in an automobile accident. There were no injuries, and the other partys vehicle sustained little damage. My problem is that my car was not insured, but I (my name) was insured, meaning that Im on the policy. I had just registered the car 25 days prior to the accident and had not gotten a chance to put insurance on it. My insurances' policy states that whatever car I drive I am still covered, so long as Im on the policy (liability). I recently called the insurance company about 5 days after the accident to put my car on the policy and they had told me that they were not going to cover the accident and that I was to pay for all damages. Right about now I am extremely worried, since the insurance company is not going to cover the accident, that would mean that my car was not insured during the accident. I honestly do not know whats going to happen. Will I lose my liscense? Should I raise a claim against the insurance company? (my insurance is 20th century). The police report also says that I was at fault, but the other guy was speeding and I sustained more damage than he did. I would really appreciate it if you would contact me as soon as possible.

Thank you,


Asked on 3/03/99, 5:51 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Steven Murray Steven W. Murray, APC

Re: autmobile accidents and uninsured drivers

Most policies contain a "free" 30 day period during which

time newly acquired vehicles are covered. So you should

be insured for this accident. The policy would have to

be looked at to make sure. Make sure to document the fact

that you notified the insurer within the 30 days.

And write them a letter enclosing your documentation and

demanding an acknowledgement of coverage - it is easier to

and more economical to straighten this out now than one

year from now when a suit is filed against you.

Steven Murray

Steven W. Murray, APC

16055 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 900


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Answered on 3/17/99, 9:27 pm
Steven Murray Steven W. Murray, APC

Re: autmobile accidents and uninsured drivers

Most policies contain a "free" 30 day period during which

time newly acquired vehicles are covered. So you should

be insured for this accident. The policy would have to

be looked at to make sure. Make sure to document the fact

that you notified the insurer within the 30 days.

And write them a letter enclosing your documentation and

demanding an acknowledgement of coverage - it is easier

and more economical to straighten this out now than it will be

one year from now if a suit is filed against you.

Steven Murray

Steven W. Murray, APC

16055 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 900


Read more
Answered on 3/17/99, 9:28 pm
Ken Koury Kenneth P. Koury, Esq.

Re: autmobile accidents

In cases like this the insurance company will always tell you there is no coverage. That may or may not be true. I cannot tell you without reading the policy. If nothing comes of the accident dont worry about it. if a claim does come in first submit the claim to the insurance company. If they refuse it, have a lawyer review the policy and send a letter to the insurance company demanding that they cover you.

Ken Koury

Kenneth P. Koury, Esq.

5807 Topanga Cyn Blvd., Suite G-201


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Answered on 3/04/99, 12:24 am


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