How To Deal with Drivers Who Have No Insurance or Not Enough Coverage
Car accidents happen frequently. So it comes as a relief to know that car insurance coverage will can be used to help cover for expenses. But in many cases, crashes involve drivers with no or not enough insurance coverage. In others instances, accidents happen to be hit-and-runs. And victims may not find the culprit.
If you are a victim and you have found yourself in one of these situations, you still have options.
Below, you will find all information you need to know to understand whether you’re in this situation. As well as a comprehensive explanation of your options if you are the victim.
Who’s An Uninsured Or Underinsured Driver?
- Uninsured Driver Definition
Each state has a required minimum amount of coverage. In Washington, it’s illegal to drive without auto insurance.When a driver has no insurance, he or she is said to be an uninsured driver.
- Underinsured Driver Definition
Many drivers have only the minimum amount necessary to be legal. However, there may be instances where this amount is insufficient to cover the damages, therefore the other party is said to be “underinsured’ motorist.
If involved in an accident with either an underinsured or uninsured party, you can use your own coverage to seek help.
Using Your Own Underinsured / Uninsured Motorist Coverage
When the driver who hit you does not have proper insurance you may be able to rely on your own insurance to help defray your damages.
Most people with adequate car insurance have Uninsured Motorist Coverage or UIM. Without even realizing, the clause is present in their policy. The benefits can be used when you are hit by someone with no coverage, inadequate insurance, or if you are injured in a hit-and-run accident.
In our line of work, we have helped countless people in this situation. That’s why we always urge our clients and friends to carry plenty of UIM coverage. Because the reality is that while all drivers are required to carry insurance, many drivers don’t follow the law. Protecting yourself and loves ones means making sure you are fully covered.
With that being said, there are still cases involving victims who don’t have insurance or cannot cover their expenses using only their coverage. So what should they do?
Alternative Options To Using Your Own Insurance
If you do not have UIM, your health care or another third party coverage may have compensation available to you. A qualified attorney can review all policies involved to determine your best available avenues for compensation.
Accident Expenses
Victims of pedestrian accidents face substantial expenses including, but not limited to, medical bills, emergency room fees, physical therapy costs, and any medical equipment purchased. Compensation may be sought for these items, as well as for lost wages and mental anguish. Calculating the total expense of an accident injury can be a complicated process. Your suffering and future income loss will be taken into account. You will also need to obtain and preserve medical records that back up your claims.
Insurance Companies
It is never easy to deal with insurance companies – your own or anyone else’s! Insurance adjusters are not your friends. They exist to make a profit for the company that signs their paycheck. They will try their best to minimize your claim, regardless of how serious your injuries or damages may be. Insurance companies do not have your best interests at heart.
An experienced lawyer will be able to tackle insurance companies, fight for your rights and look out for your best interests. When you do have to speak to the companies directly, an attorney can advise you on how that conversation will go and what you should and should not say.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Washington and are dealing with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, please contact the experienced attorneys at the Bernard Law Group for a free and comprehensive consultation.
