It is not uncommon for car accidents to be traumatic experiences, especially when an uninsured motorist causes them. According to recent statistics, about 14% of US drivers are uninsured.
If you get hit by an uninsured driver, the chances of them being able to cover your damages and medical expenses are slim. This can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of what steps to take next. If an uninsured driver has hit you, here's what you need to do:
Gather Information at the Scene
The first thing you should do at the site of an accident involving an uninsured driver is collect as much information as possible. This includes:
- Taking pictures of the damage to both cars,
- Acquiring the license plate number and contact details of the other motorist,
- Gathering the contact details of any witnesses.
You will need this information when submitting a claim to your insurance provider. It will also come in handy if the other driver chooses to leave the scene or give misleading information.
Call The Police
Even if the damage seems minimal, it is essential to call the police to report the accident. The police will create a concrete incident report to be used as evidence for your insurance claim. They will also ensure that both parties exchange information accurately and peacefully.
In some states, it is mandatory to call the police in case of an accident, so make sure to check your state's laws.
File a Claim with Your Insurance Company
Now that you have gathered all the necessary information and filed a police report, it's time to contact your insurer to submit a claim. Your policy should include coverage for uninsured motorists, including damages and medical expenses in an accident with an uninsured driver.
However, keep in mind that this type of coverage may vary depending on the state you live in. It's best to review your policy and consult your insurance agent to completely comprehend the coverage and process for filing a claim.
Seek Medical Attention
It is imperative that you get medical assistance as quickly as possible after an accident, even if you do not feel gravely hurt at the site. Specific injuries might not show symptoms immediately, and if they are not treated, they might worsen.
Seeking medical attention also documents any injuries sustained due to the accident, which can be used to support your claim with the insurance company.
Consider Legal Action
If your insurance company fails to provide adequate compensation or denies your claim, consider taking legal action against the uninsured motorist. This can be a complex and lengthy process, so consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney specializing in uninsured motorist cases is essential.
You also suffered severe injuries as a consequence of the collision. If so, you might be able to sue the uninsured driver to recover losses, including pain and suffering, lost wages, medical costs, and other damages.
Final Thoughts!
Being involved in a car accident is never easy, but being hit by an uninsured motorist can add even more stress and uncertainty. If you find yourself in this situation, remember to gather information at the scene, file a police report, contact your insurance company, seek medical attention, consider hiring a personal injury lawyer, and take preventative measures for future accidents.
You can defend your rights and get your due compensation by taking the actions listed here. So, if an uninsured driver has hit you, don't panic; follow these steps and seek help to move forward from this unfortunate situation. Remember, your safety is always the top priority.
Stay safe on the road!
