Maximizing Client Recovery When the At-Fault Party Has Limited Insurance or Assets

If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone with minimal insurance coverage or few financial assets, you might be concerned about your ability to recover fair compensation. At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc., we understand these challenges and have developed alternative strategies to pursue every possible avenue for our clients’ recovery.

Understanding the Problem: Limited Insurance and Asset Recovery

In California, the minimum required liability insurance for drivers is often not enough to cover serious injuries, property damage, or long-term medical care. When the at-fault party is underinsured or uninsured, traditional compensation routes may fall short. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

Alternative Strategies to Maximize Recovery

  1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

One of the first steps we take is evaluating our client’s own auto insurance policy. If you carry UM/UIM coverage, we may file a claim under your own policy. This is especially helpful in hit-and-run accidents or cases where the liable party’s insurance doesn’t meet your damages.

  1. Third-Party Liability Claims

In some cases, another party may share liability. This could include:

  • Employers of the at-fault driver (if they were on the job)

  • Vehicle manufacturers (in case of defects)

  • Government entities (for unsafe road conditions)

We conduct thorough investigations to uncover any third-party negligence that may expand the pool of liable entities.

  1. Personal Assets and Court Judgments

If the liable party has significant personal assets, we may pursue a court judgment. While this approach can be complex and take time, it may lead to wage garnishments, liens, or asset seizures if necessary.

  1. MedPay or Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

For immediate medical expenses, we help clients access Medical Payments coverage or PIP, if available on their policy. These benefits can ease financial burdens while broader claims are pursued.

  1. Negotiating Medical Bills and Liens

To help maximize net compensation, we work with healthcare providers to reduce medical bills or liens. Our legal team often negotiates substantial reductions, ensuring more of the settlement goes directly to the client.

Legal Expertise That Makes a Difference

Our firm combines aggressive advocacy with strategic planning to navigate cases involving underinsured or judgment-proof defendants. Every case is unique, and our attorneys evaluate all potential recovery sources with diligence and creativity.

Contact Harris Personal Injury Lawyers Today

If you've been injured and worry that the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance or assets, don't give up hope. Call 1-800-GO-HARRIS for a free consultation. We'll assess your options and fight to get you the compensation you deserve—even when the odds seem stacked against you.