What To Know About Car Accidents Involving Uninsured Drivers
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough—but when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, things can get even more complicated. Despite laws requiring insurance coverage, many drivers still operate vehicles without it. If you’re ever in this situation, it’s important to understand your options and how to protect yourself by teaming up with a car accident lawyer. Our friends at Barry P. Goldberg explain how to deal with uninsured drivers, below.
Check Your Own Insurance Coverage
Start by reviewing your own auto insurance policy. Many drivers carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which is designed specifically for situations like this. UM coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering if you’re hit by someone who lacks insurance. If you’re not sure if you have it, call your insurance provider and ask—they’re required in many states to offer this type of coverage.
Document The Scene Carefully
Even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you still need to go through the usual steps after an accident. Call the police, take photos of the scene, and gather as much information as you can. A police report is especially important in uninsured driver accidents, as it provides official documentation of what happened and may be necessary for your claim.
Don’t Accept Cash Offers
Sometimes, uninsured drivers will try to avoid legal trouble by offering you cash at the scene. It may seem tempting to settle things quickly, especially if the damage appears minor, but this can backfire. Injuries and vehicle damage can become more apparent in the days following a crash. Always follow proper reporting procedures to protect your rights.
File A Claim With Your Insurer
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, your next step is to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist policy. If you don’t have UM coverage, you may still be able to pursue compensation through other portions of your policy, such as collision coverage, but you could end up covering more of the costs yourself.
Seek Legal Guidance
Because uninsured driver claims can be tricky, especially if your insurer is slow to respond or denies your claim, speaking with a car accident lawyer can be beneficial. They can help evaluate your coverage, negotiate with your insurer, and explore other legal options for getting the compensation you need. You should know when to call a lawyer after an accident so that you can get assistance with your case.
Facing an accident with an uninsured driver may feel like a dead end, but you do have legal paths forward. Knowing your rights and acting quickly can make a big difference in how smoothly the recovery process goes. Call a law firm today to get assistance.