Can Someone Sue You for a Car Accident If You Have Insurance in California?

Can someone sue you for a car accident if you have insurance in California? The short answer is yes. Insurance helps cover damages, but it doesn’t make you immune to lawsuits.

What Insurance Covers—And What It Doesn’t

In California, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance. This insurance pays for injuries or property damage you cause to others in a crash. However, there are limits to what your policy covers.

Typical Liability Coverage:

• $15,000 for injury or death to one person
• $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
• $5,000 for property damage

If the damages exceed these limits, your insurance may not cover everything—leaving you personally exposed.

So, can someone sue you for a car accident if you have insurance in California? Yes, especially if their damages are higher than your policy limit.

When and Why You Can Still Be Sued

Even with valid insurance, you can still face a lawsuit in several situations.

1. Inadequate Policy Limits

If the injured party’s medical bills, lost wages, or property damage exceed your coverage, they may sue you for the remaining amount.

2. Disputed Liability

If fault is unclear or contested, the other party may sue to try to prove you were responsible and recover damages.

3. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Situations

If your coverage has lapsed or isn’t active at the time of the accident, you can be sued directly and may have to pay out of pocket.

4. Pain and Suffering Claims

Your insurance may not fully compensate for non-economic damages. That could lead someone to pursue additional compensation in court.

Understanding how liability works is key. Learn more about proving liability in California accident cases.

What to Do If You’re Sued After an Accident

So, can someone sue you for a car accident if you have insurance in California? Yes—and if they do, here’s how to respond:

• Notify your insurance company immediately
• Provide all relevant documents from the crash
• Do not admit fault outside of legal advice
• Consult a personal injury attorney if the claim exceeds your coverage

Even if you were only partially at fault, California’s pure comparative negligence law allows the other party to recover compensation reduced by their percentage of fault.

Why Legal Help Matters in California Accident Lawsuits

Getting sued—even with insurance—is stressful and risky. A qualified attorney can:

• Defend your side of the case
• Challenge the claim amount
• Negotiate out-of-court settlements
• Protect your personal assets

If you’re asking can someone sue you for a car accident if you have insurance in California, an attorney can help make sure the lawsuit doesn’t go further than it should.

Get Help If You’re Facing a Car Accident Lawsuit in California

Still wondering, can someone sue you for a car accident if you have insurance in California? Don’t take chances. Visit Legal Brand Marketing to get connected with an experienced California personal injury defense attorney who can help you respond to claims and protect your future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will my insurance cover legal defense in a lawsuit?

Yes, most liability policies include legal defense for covered claims. However, this doesn’t apply if your coverage is denied or lapsed.

2. Can someone sue me even if the accident was minor?

Yes, if they claim injuries or damages not covered by your insurance, even a minor accident can lead to a lawsuit.

3. What if my insurance company settles—am I still at risk?

If the settlement exceeds your policy limits, the injured party could still sue you for the remainder.

4. How do I avoid being sued after an accident?

Make sure your policy limits are adequate, avoid admitting fault, and always consult a lawyer if serious injuries are involved.

5. Can I be sued for punitive damages?

In rare cases, yes—especially if the crash involved reckless driving or DUI.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can be sued in California even if you have insurance.
• Insurance has coverage limits; lawsuits can seek more.
• Disputed fault or serious injuries increase lawsuit risks.
• Always report claims and consult legal counsel promptly.
• Legal defense can help limit personal financial exposure.