Being involved in a car accident can be a distressing and financially burdensome experience. Matters become even more complicated if the other driver does not have insurance.
If you find yourself in such a situation, keep in mind that you have options and steps you can take to protect yourself. Exploring these options can ensure you get the compensation you deserve after an uninsured driver hits you.
Gather information
Collecting information as soon as possible is vital when dealing with an uninsured driver. Ensure you get the other driver’s personal details, such as their name, contact information and license plate number. If possible, also gather information from any witnesses present at the scene. This information helps you build a case if you decide to take legal action.
Uninsured motorist coverage
Some insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage can help you pay for damages and medical expenses if the other driver does not have insurance. If you have this coverage, your insurance company could assist you in recovering costs related to the accident.
Small claims court
If the accident resulted in minor damages, you might consider taking the at-fault driver to small claims court. The small claims court is for cases involving smaller sums of money and does not. Keep in mind that the process can vary by jurisdiction.
Prevention moving forward
While you cannot control other drivers, you can take steps to protect yourself in the future. Consider adding uninsured motorist coverage to your insurance policy if you do not have it already. Additionally, practicing defensive driving and adhering to traffic rules can lower the risk of accidents.
Statistics suggest that as many as 12.6% of drivers do not have auto insurance. Though the law requires a minimum amount of liability insurance for drivers, it is important to prepare for the very real possibility of experiencing a crash with an insured motorist.
