Getting into a car accident is difficult enough—but finding out the other driver doesn’t have insurance can make things even more stressful. If you’ve been injured and the person responsible can’t cover your medical bills or property damage, it’s important to know what options are available. Our friends at Brown Paindiris & Scott, LLP discuss in this post what steps you can take and how to protect your rights when dealing with this situation.
If you have been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, a car accident lawyer can explain the legal and insurance options you may be able to pursue. There are also several steps you can take immediately after the crash that may help your case down the line.
Report The Crash To Law Enforcement
The first step after any crash is to make sure everyone is safe and to contact local police. When the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance, an official report becomes even more important. This documentation will help show who was at fault and will be critical when filing a claim with your own insurance company.
Be honest with officers about what happened and make sure your injuries, vehicle damage, and the other driver’s lack of insurance are noted. That report will likely be used when your insurer evaluates your uninsured motorist coverage.
Seek Medical Treatment Quickly
If you’re injured, even if it seems minor at first, don’t wait to get medical care. Documenting your injuries right away shows a clear connection between the crash and your condition. Keep records of hospital visits, physical therapy, medications, and doctor notes. These documents will be needed whether you file a claim with your own policy or pursue further legal action with the help of an attorney. It is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible and to keep all of your follow-up appointments even if you are feeling better because these things may be used against you if you need to make a claim to cover your expenses that are the result of your accident.
Use Your Own Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, your own auto policy may cover your injuries and damages. This is where an uninsured motorist attorney can provide guidance. They can help review your policy and determine what type of coverage you have and what your next steps should be.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is designed for this type of situation. If you have it, your insurance company will essentially step into the role of the at-fault driver’s insurer. A reason that it is recommended people in this situation seek the help of an uninsured motorist lawyer is because insurance companies are notorious for trying to pay out as little money as they can get away with, even to their own clients. Legal support can help with this process.
Consider Legal Options If Coverage Falls Short
In some cases, your losses may be greater than what your UM coverage provides. If that happens, there may be legal options to recover damages from the at-fault driver directly. This isn’t always practical, especially if the other party has limited assets, but it’s something a lawyer can help evaluate.
Working with someone familiar with these cases will help you determine if legal action is worth pursuing. An attorney can also assist if your insurance company fails to treat your claim fairly.
Protect Yourself And Your Recovery
Being hit by an uninsured driver doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and vehicle damage. But acting quickly and getting the right legal help makes a big difference.
If you’re in this situation, speaking with a qualified attorney is a smart step. Legal professionals can help you file claims, deal with insurers, and explore other paths for recovery. Don’t wait to protect your rights and your financial future.
