Car insurance is mandatory in most states, though uninsured car accidents still occur when people violate the law by driving without auto insurance. Further, in some instances the other driver may not have adequate car insurance. Other times it’s a hit and run, and you may not be able to identify the driver or the car. If you are in such a situation, you have to turn to your insurer to cover your damages. However, this is only possible if you are properly insured.
The United States has some of the busiest roads consequently you would expect more accidents. In 2019 it is reported that there were 12.15 million crashes, causing fatal injuries and property damage. Major or minor, most of us have been involved in a car accident. When you are in such a situation, typically, your car insurance coverage or that of the other driver will cover medical treatment and any property damage. If you are involved in an uninsured car accident, you need to know your options.
Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is an additional cover that you can purchase from your insurance company. This coverage is offered by insurance companies to protect you when you get involved in a car accident, and the other party does not have car insurance and is found to be responsible for the accident.
Similar to the UM coverage, the underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) caters for damages sustained in an accident when the other driver has an insurance policy, but it’s not enough to cater for injuries, damages and any other losses arising from the accident. This cover caters for the difference in the other party’s coverage and the total losses.
You can also get collision coverage with your insurance company. If you get into an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, this coverage caters for damages on your car but won’t cater for any injuries that you sustain.
It is a fact that many car owners who don’t have car insurance don’t have it because they can’t afford it. This means that they are not in a financial position to pay for the damage on your vehicle and medical costs. You may sue them and get a court judgment entitling you to compensation by the uninsured driver. However, it’s not worth the hustle since they will probably declare bankruptcy.
It is important to note that the uninsured motorist does not go scot-free. Apart from being unable to cater for their vehicle repairs and medical treatment they are subject to additional fees and penalties. These penalties may include:
If you have been involved in an underinsured or uninsured car accident, it is critical that you engage the services of an experienced auto injury attorney and consult your insurance provider.
Thompson Law is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have regarding your accident. If we can help, we can get you signed up over the phone and get working on your uninsured car accident case today.
Contact Thompson Law at 844-308-8180. We offer FREE CONSULTATIONS and charge NO FEE unless we are able to obtain a settlement on your behalf.
Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $2.1 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.
State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.
