There are a number of things to deal with after a car accident. Dealing with medical treatment, car repairs, and most importantly, insurance companies can cause headaches. While this is never fun to work with, the process is usually pretty straightforward. However, if the other party who caused the accident was not insured, it can complicate the process considerably.
While it is illegal to drive without insurance, around 20% of road users are uninsured. If you are injured in an accident, there is a one in five chance that the driver who hit you is not insured. So if you’ve been hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance, you might be wondering how to make a claim?
In most car accidents, there is a victim and the culprit. When a lawsuit is filed for a car accident, it is usually the victim who files a lawsuit against the culpable party. Then negligent driver insurance kicks in to pay for the damage. However, if the culpable party is not insured, there are six steps you can take after the accident.
- call the police – If you need to file a lawsuit, the police report is valuable evidence on your case.
- Seek medical treatment In addition to being treated for your injuries, you need to see a doctor to get medical records confirming your case.
- Exchange contact information – Don’t leave the scene without the other driver’s name, address and phone number.
- Document and photograph the scene – Details of the accident can help determine who was to blame.
- Collect witnesses – Gathering testimony from an impartial party about the accident.
- Don’t accept money – Withdrawal of any amount of money from the culpable party can be considered compensation for perceived damage if your case goes to court.
If you follow these six steps you will be in the best position to make up for your losses. But how do you get this compensation? There are two ways to deal with an accident with an uninsured driver.
1. File a lawsuit against your own insurance company.
Some insurance policies offer something called Uninsured Motor Coverage (UMC). This coverage is not required to purchase, but it can be useful if you find yourself in this situation. If you have an accident with an uninsured motorist, UMC allows you to make a claim with your insurance company and get compensation through your own insurance company.
2. File a lawsuit against the uninsured driver.
The other way to get compensation after an accident with an uninsured driver is to file a personal injury lawsuit against the culpable party. Sometimes the uninsured party may not have enough assets to justify the effort of filing a lawsuit. However, you can speak to a personal injury attorney to determine if filing a lawsuit is right for your case. If you proceed with a lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for property damage, personal injury, medical expenses, lost wages, lifestyle adjustments, or pain and suffering.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist, give the Greathouse Trial Law a call today. We can let you know your options and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a full case review and advice on your rights and best options.
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