Insurance Companies Go After Uninsured Drivers
You may have been hurt in a car accident with an uninsured driver, and you are wondering how to get compensation. There are a few things you can do to make the process easier. The most important thing is to file an uninsured motorist claim as soon as possible after the accident. A lawyer can help you do this. However, there are plenty of other factors to consider.
Although a lawsuit is usually the best way to get paid, it’s not always the fastest or most straightforward way. An experienced attorney can help you determine who’s at fault for your injuries and help you find the insurance coverage you need.
Most states require drivers to have a minimum amount of liability car insurance. If you don’t, you’ll be facing penalties. In California, for example, you can be fined up to $2000 for driving without insurance. Other states may have different laws, so check out your state’s regulations before making any decisions.
When a driver is at fault for an accident, their insurer may try to get reimbursed for property damage or injury costs. This is a legal process known as subrogation. Your insurance company will likely contact your local police department and run your car’s registration through databases to determine whether or not it was involved in the crash.
Getting sued in court for damages caused by an uninsured motorist isn’t as easy as it sounds. Aside from getting a judgment, you could also face jail time. Additionally, your chances of winning are slim. Even if you win a suit, getting the compensation you deserve is difficult. For instance, an overnight hospital stay can cost tens of thousands of dollars. And if you’re the driver at fault for the crash, you’ll only be able to recover part of the costs.
While waiting for your payout, your insurance company will likely ask you directly if you have collision coverage. You’ll be stuck paying for the other driver’s repairs if you don’t have it. Similarly, the same company may also ask you for proof of your medical payments coverage. This is especially true if you’re injured in an accident. Once you provide the evidence, you may be able to receive some of your reimbursement. But don’t be surprised if your insurer drags its feet.
The most effective method of claiming your injuries may be to inform your insurer of the incident and let them do the work. Depending on the case, your insurance company may go after the other party’s insurance provider. They may even do a background check on the driver.
One of the best ways to tell who is at fault for an accident is to make sure you take pictures. Take a few of the other driver’s vehicles, the surrounding area, and any traffic signs or road markers. These photographs will serve as evidence if you ever need to prove your side of the story.