HomeLegalDealing with Car Accidents when the Other Driver is Uninsured

Dealing with Car Accidents when the Other Driver is Uninsured

In the United States, the law in most states requires motorists to have some minimum level of liability insurance. Unfortunately, not everyone has insurance coverage or is properly insured. As such, if you are in a car accident and the at-fault party does not have car insurance, getting compensation may seem tricky.

However, there are ways to deal with car accidents involving the other driver not insured, or underinsured.

In this article, we will share some ingenious ways to get compensation when involved in a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist.

Sue the At-fault Party for Compensation

If you are going to sue the at-fault party, it’s vital to seek legal help for car accidents in Dripping Springs. Note that filing a lawsuit against the driver makes the driver legally liable to pay compensation for the accident.

However, a lawsuit can be time-consuming and make it difficult to collect damages especially if the other driver does not have a personal asset to cover the compensation. So, while suing the at-fault driver may seem like the most reasonable thing to do, make it your last resort.

Use your Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage

Alternatively, if your insurance plan has uninsured/underinsured coverage, you can claim the policy to get compensation. A UM/UIM insurance covers things like property damage, medical expenses, loss of wage, and pain and suffering to name a few. Note that this extra coverage may come with an added cost. However, considering the value, it’s worth every dime.

Aside from covering you from being involved in an accident where the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, it covers hit-and-run drivers. An uninsured/underinsured insurance policy provides coverage for you and your passengers. While in Texas, getting UM/UIM insurance is not mandatory, in other states in the US, it is a requirement.

Use Collision Insurance for Property Damage

If you don’t have the UM/UIM coverage in your insurance package, you will most likely have collision insurance. Collision insurance covers the cost of repairing your vehicle if the other party does not have coverage. If repairs aren’t possible, collision insurance can replace your car. Getting a collision issuance is one of the ways you can save money on your car insurance.

Note that your comprehensive insurance policy does not include collision insurance. As such, to get coverage in case you are involved in an accident, you need to get collision insurance as an added extension. Your insurance company is in the best position to advise you on the deductible you will pay for this added option.

Get Medical Attention with Health Insurance

Also, your health insurance will come in handy if you experience injury or there is a death involved in the car accident. Your health insurance covers your medical expenses such as medical tests, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and follow-up care.

While health insurance covers your medical expenses, it does not cover other accident-related costs. For example, health insurance does not compensate you for pain and suffering, or loss of wages. So, to get compensation for other car accident-related costs, you will need to work with a personal car injury attorney to help determine how to reach a settlement agreement with the at-fault driver.

Final Words

Being involved in a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist can be a challenging experience. However, there are ways to get compensation, and it’s essential to know your options.

Remember, suing the at-fault party may not always be the best solution, but using your uninsured/underinsured coverage, collision insurance, and health insurance can help you get the compensation you deserve.

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