Things to remember in uninsured driver accidents
Car accidents happen. When they do, you can take comfort in the knowledge that you have adequate auto insurance coverage. Some people do not take such precautions, however. At times, a driver involved in a car accident may not have enough car insurance to cover costs or may not even have a basic policy, to begin with. This creates some uncertainty in the event that the uninsured driver was responsible for having caused the accident and ought to be held responsible for any financial damages incurred. For information on uninsured motorist insurance protection matters, see the California Department of Insurance website.
Underinsured and uninsured coverage can lend a helping hand
When you find yourself involved in a crash with an uninsured driver, you will have no choice but to rely on your own insurance to help with any damages. Fortunately, there is a solution. Underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage are additional policies that individuals can acquire in order to protect themselves in the event of a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Most insurance providers require that you file a claim for uninsured motorists within a narrow timeframe. In some instances, a policyholder may have as few as thirty days from the date of the accident. This is why it’s best to begin the process of filing a claim immediately after learning that the other driver does not have adequate insurance coverage.
Dealing with an uninsured driver accident
The other motorist not having insurance is the only variable that differs from the average car accident in these cases. As a result, there are certain steps you ought to take in order to prepare for such an insurance claim.
Call local law enforcement
Calling local police after an accident is the right thing to do. It’s important to make sure there is a record of the crash, especially in cases where the driver was uninsured. The associated police report will assist with the claims process. You may also want to take photographs of the scene and any resulting damage or injuries.
Exchange contact information with others
Be sure to get the contact information of the other driver and any witnesses. Although the police will do this as well, you must learn whether or not the other driver has insurance.
Contact your own insurance company
If you have an uninsured motorist policy that covers injuries and property damage, your policy provider will help. At this point, the insurance provider will figure out how much your policy will cover any damages.
Seek medical attention
If you were injured, there may be medical expenses to follow. In a typical case, the insurance of the other driver would cover your medical bills. But in uninsured driver scenarios, your own health insurance may provide coverage. Even so, you may have to pay for your deductible outright.
If you have been injured in a car accident with a driver who was uninsured or underinsured, contact our law office today.
Sources:
https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/01-auto/auto101.cfm