Most states require that all drivers have some level of car insurance. At the very least, that coverage should account for the damages to another vehicle and driver if you’re at fault for a crash.
The reality is, though, that a lot of people fail to get this basic coverage and drive uninsured. What are you supposed to do if another driver crashes into you and doesn’t have any insurance?
It’s a tricky situation, but you have some options to work with. We’re going to take a look at how to deal with an underinsured motorist today, giving you a brief guide on what to do.
Let’s get started.
How to Handle Underinsured Motorists
The first and most proactive thing to do is talk with your insurance company before there’s a crash. In other words, it might be a good idea to give them a ring right after you finish reading this article.
Ask them about their options for uninsured motorist coverage. This is coverage that allows you the peace of mind to know that you’re protected, even if other drivers aren’t. Uninsured motorist coverage accounts for your damages and personal injury when the other driver is totally uninsured.
Adding this insurance will bump your payment up slightly, but that fee is nothing compared to the huge costs that come with a collision.
If you don’t get uninsured motorist coverage, though, there are still a few things you can do to get compensation.
Options for Legal Action
Make sure to get all of the other driver’s information after your crash, even if they don’t have insurance.
When someone doesn’t have insurance, they might say that they don’t have to give their information because there’s no point. After all, they don’t have an insurance company to contact, so why give their name and number over?
This avoidance comes from the fact that driving without insurance is illegal, and they may have been at fault. Those circumstances give you the upper hand legally, and you can take them to court for the damages.
It’s important to find a collision lawyer who’s versed in these issues and has experience getting people compensation from uninsured motorists.
Finding Insurance
If you’re an uninsured motorist, it’s essential that you get an insurance policy as soon as possible. You’re driving at financial risk to yourself and everyone around you.
Not to mention that it’s illegal, and you could lose your license if you’re pulled over. The basic insurance that drivers need is liability coverage.
This policy covers the other drivers that you may have a collision with. It doesn’t, however, cover your damages and injuries. Shop around with insurance companies, and you’ll likely find a rate that doesn’t break the bank.
Need More Insight on Insurance?
Hopefully, you have a better idea of how to handle an underinsured motorist after reading this article. Seek out uninsured motorist coverage and you’ll avoid most, if not all out of pocket expenses in an accident.
There’s a lot more to learn, though, and we’re here to help. Explore our site for more ideas on staying safe on the road.
