Let’s face it, no one likes paying for car insurance. In the event of a car accident, auto insurance is the main way drivers recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages due to injury or death. So, it’s important for drivers to have the right auto coverage policy.
Even so, many drivers on the road are not covered by insurance or they’ve let their policy lapse. This is not only illegal, but it makes it difficult to recover financial compensation from an at fault driver when they don’t have an insurance policy to cover the costs of your damages.
What to do Immediately Following an Accident
Regardless of the other driver’s car insurance status or who is at fault, it’s important to follow the same steps after an accident. Make sure everyone is safe, and call law enforcement or 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if you’re feeling okay at the time, see a doctor for a full medical evaluation.
The police will help file an accident report which will also serve as evidence for your claim. Take photos of the road conditions, damages to your vehicle, any injuries, and the other driver’s vehicle and license plate. You should also exchange contact information for everyone involved as well as any witnesses of the accident.
What if the At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Auto Insurance?
Normally when people get into an accident, the insurance companies pay for property damages, medical bills, and lost wages. So, what happens if the negligent driver doesn’t have coverage? It doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to collect the financial compensation you deserve.
Uninsured and Underinsured Auto Accident Coverage
Drivers are encouraged by their insurance companies to carry uninsured and underinsured coverage. This type of insurance will help to cover your expenses, as long as you choose this coverage on your policy. Depending on the state you live in, this type of insurance might be required.
If the at-fault driver only has the minimum coverage and it doesn’t pay for all of your damages and medical bills, your underinsured insurance will help pay for the rest. A driver without insurance might try to talk you out of filing a claim, but it’s in your best interest to file immediately after the accident.
Filing a Lawsuit Against a Driver Without Insurance
If you discover that you don’t have the proper coverage, you will need to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. An experienced bay area auto injury lawyer can help you through the process and ensure that you get the best possible outcome in the situation.
It’s important to find a good car accident attorney as soon as you file a claim with your insurance company so you can be compensated for damages you suffered through no fault of your own. Getting in a car accident with an uninsured driver can be stressful, but if you take the proper steps it can make the process much easier.
