When you are hit by an uninsured driver, you may instantly worry about who will pay for the damage to your vehicle and the injuries you’ve sustained. In this situation, you may need to file a claim against the driver. In some situations, this may escalate to a lawsuit. However, your own auto insurance may provide some coverage for you. If you are involved in an accident, and you learn the other person is driving without insurance, contact the police to file a report. Gather insight and information into that driver. Then, contact your insurance company. You may also want to consider working with a personal injury attorney as well.
Who Is Responsible?
The responsible party insurance policy generally pays for the losses you suffer, including property damage and injuries. However, victims of uninsured drivers will find this to be a loss. If a driver is uninsured or underinsured, this indicates the claims you may make are not covered by that party’s coverage.
If you purchased uninsured or underinsured auto insurance, your policy may provide financial protection for you. This is a policy you buy in addition to comprehensive car insurance, collision insurance, and liability insurance. It protects you in these incidents. In this situation, the insurance company may pursue legal action against the driver who lacks coverage. Your insurance claim pays for the damage in this situation. You do not suffer any losses such as losing your no-claims benefits or receiving penalty points.
Generally speaking, the motor insurers bureau MIB will handle any type of points on the driver’s license. And, they may help track down the uninsured and untraced driver, too.
Most importantly, do not take the uninsured driver’s promise that they will pay you back. Many drivers in this situation may ask you not to contact their insurer or call the police. Do not make this mistake. Even when the situation is due to road traffic and was just an accident, it is critical to protect yourself from financial loss. Gather their information, call the police, and then contact your insurance company.
What If You Do Not Know the Driver?
One of the most devastating situations occurs when a hit-and-run driver takes off, leaving you with injuries and damage. You may not have a chance to gather details on who it was. In this case, work with the police to identify the untraceable driver. Again, your uninsured or underinsured auto insurance policy should help you in this situation.
What If Your Insurance Does Not Cover Your Losses?
This is perhaps a difficult situation and one in which you will want to contact a personal injury attorney who will work to represent you and help you obtain the legal support you need. Whether you need to file a claim with your insurance company, another insurer, or you need to take legal action against the uninsured driver, these professionals will provide you with support throughout the process. An accident with an uninsured driver can leave you with thousands of dollars worth of damage to your car and medical bills. It is critical for you to take legal action to recoup these losses in many situations.
It’s More Than Just a Claim
When you suffer an injury due to an accident, you may face a significant amount of damage and long-term pain. You may even find yourself unable to get back to day-to-day life. When this happens because of the actions or inactions of another person, you have the legal right to take action. Many men and women suffer for years after being in this situation. You deserve compensation for your losses. We encourage you to contact an experienced law firm, such as Brad Johnson Injury Law, to learn what steps you can take to recoup your losses.