Understanding Uninsured Motorist Claims
Accidents with drivers who don’t have insurance can not only be frustrating but result in more out-of-pocket costs for you the driver, depending on your insurance policy and state requirements. Here’s a quick guide on what to do and why having a good auto accident lawyer is so important.
What’s an Uninsured Motorist Claim?
When you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance, you’ll need to look at your own insurance for compensation or take legal action. Uninsured drivers don’t have the required coverage to cover damages sustained to their vehicle or the other motorists if they are the at-fault party in a car accident., which can lead to fines or even jail time. If the uninsured driver is at fault, you may also need to use your own car insurance policy to cover any damages your vehicle sustains in a collision.
Common Causes of Uninsured Car Accident Claims
These claims often arise from distractions, speeding, bad weather, or reckless driving. For example, texting while driving can increase the chances of an accident. Speeding makes it harder to stop or react quickly, and bad weather can make roads slippery. According to the National Highway and Safety Commission, 94% of serious accidents are caused by human error. The Insurance Research Council estimates that 14% of drivers are uninsured, and a 2022 study by AAA estimates approximately 35.7 million drivers are uninsured. This, combined with human error, contributes to the overall number of uninsured car accidents every year.
How to Stay Safe After a Car Accident
The first thing you need to do if you’re in an accident is to ensure everyone’s safety. Move to a safe spot away from traffic or hazards, call 911, and make sure a police report is filed. Check for injuries, help if you can, and gather important information like insurance details and witness statements. Depending on your state’s laws, you may need to collect insurance and licensing information from the other drivers or wait for the police to provide it. Don’t forget to take photos or videos of the scene to document the collision for insurance purposes.
Collecting Evidence
At the scene, take clear photos of the damage, the road, and anything else important. Talk to witnesses, note their observations, and ask if they’d be willing to provide you with contact details should you need to follow up. Get a police report, as it will be crucial for your insurance claim. If you need medical care, be sure to ask for a copy of your medical records as they’ll show the injuries and treatment costs.
Why You Need an Attorney
A lawyer who handles uninsured motorist cases can help you get fair compensation since they specialize in the laws and regulations surrounding accidents and can help navigate insurance policy intricacies, to ensure you get the maximum compensation to help you recover damage to your person and property.
How Attorneys Handle These Claims
Lawyers start by investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies. If necessary, they’ll need to file a lawsuit. They’ll collect witness statements, photos and medical records to build a strong case and will also negotiate with insurance adjusters and, if needed, represent you in court.
Challenges You Might Face
Handling these claims can be tough. Depending on your policy, car insurance coverage might not cover all of your expenses, uninsured drivers usually do not have the resources to cover damages even if sued, proving who the at-fault driver was can be tricky under some circumstances, and there are a lot of tight deadlines to meet. Lawyers help manage these challenges ensuring that you get the best possible outcome from your accident claim.
Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
An attorney offers valuable knowledge and experience while helping you get the most compensation possible. They handle the legal details, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights throughout the process.
If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured motorist, the accident helpline 1-800-ASK-GARY® can put you in touch with qualified legal and medical professionals to properly assess your case. Give us a call today at 1-866-939-7352.
