What Happens if Someone Sues You for More Than Your Insurance Covers?

The aftermath of an accident is overwhelming. You’re dealing with medical bills, property damage, and legal concerns. But what happens if someone sues you for more than your insurance covers? Understanding your legal options and potential financial exposure is crucial. If you’re in this situation, having an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side can make all the difference.

At Tulekyan Law, we specialize in protecting our clients when insurance coverage falls short. Whether it’s a car accident, motorcycle crash, or another liability claim, our team will ensure you’re not left financially vulnerable.

How Does Insurance Coverage Work in California?

Insurance policies are designed to cover financial losses after an accident, but they have limits. In California, the minimum liability coverage required by law is:

• $30,000 for injury or death to per person
• $60,000 for injury or death per accident
• $15,000 for property damage per accident

While many drivers opt for higher coverage, accidents involving severe injuries or property damage can easily exceed these limits. If your insurance isn’t enough, the injured party may sue you for the remaining balance.

For example, if an accident results in $100,000 in damages and your policy only covers $30,000, you could be personally responsible for the remaining $70,000.

Understanding Liability in California

California follows a fault-based system for accidents, meaning the at-fault party is liable for damages. This applies to car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. If someone sues you for more than your insurance covers, they likely believe you are fully or partially responsible.

At Tulekyan Law, we build strong defenses to minimize your financial risk. Our attorneys have extensive experience in reducing liability, ensuring you don’t pay more than your fair share.

What Happens if Someone Sues You for More Than Your Coverage?

If damages exceed your policy limits, the injured party may attempt to recover the remaining balance by targeting your personal assets, such as:

• Savings accounts
• Wages (via wage garnishment)
• Property (in extreme cases)

Fortunately, California law protects certain assets, like retirement accounts and Social Security benefits. Additionally, homestead exemptions safeguard a portion of your home’s value.

Our legal team at Tulekyan Law will help you understand your rights and develop strategies to protect your personal assets from lawsuits.

How a Lawyer Can Help When Insurance Isn’t Enough

Having an experienced personal injury lawyer can significantly impact your case. Tulekyan Law will:

Negotiate Aggressively with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We will fight to maximize your insurance benefits and seek compensation from other liable parties when necessary.

Limit Your Liability

If you’re not fully responsible for the accident, we will gather evidence, consult experts, and challenge the claims against you. California’s comparative negligence laws can reduce the plaintiff’s compensation if they were partially at fault.

Protect Your Assets

We will explore legal defenses to protect your finances and contest excessive claims. Our goal is to ensure you don’t pay more than legally required.

Explore Additional Insurance Options

If you have umbrella insurance, it may cover damages beyond your auto policy limits. We will help you determine if this option applies to your case.

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Claims

If you’re the injured party and the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage, you can file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy (UM/UIM). Tulekyan Law will handle negotiations with your insurer to secure full and fair compensation.

Special Considerations for Commercial Vehicles and High-Value Assets

Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving commercial vehicles often result in high-dollar claims. Liability may extend to employers, maintenance companies, or vehicle manufacturers. Our team specializes in identifying all responsible parties to maximize compensation.

High-Net-Worth Individuals and Business Owners

If you own significant assets, insurance shortfalls can put your financial future at risk. We will help protect your business and personal wealth by utilizing advanced legal strategies and umbrella policies.

California Law and Statute of Limitations

If you’re facing a lawsuit, time is critical. In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the accident date. Contact Tulekyan Law immediately to ensure your rights are protected.

Facing a Lawsuit? Let Tulekyan Law Protect Your Rights

Being sued for more than your insurance covers is stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Tulekyan Law is here to protect your assets and fight for your rights. Whether through negotiation, legal defense, or securing additional coverage options, we are committed to ensuring you receive the best possible outcome.

Don’t Wait—Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

If you’re being sued for more than your insurance covers, Contact Tulekyan Law today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal defense, so you can move forward with confidence.