The sun is shining, your favorite jam is on the radio, the windows are down, you’ve got an ice-cold beverage, and you’re cruising down the road (hopefully at the speed limit). By all accounts, it’s a perfect afternoon.
And then… BAM!
Somebody runs the red light and a crash is inevitable. Time slows and the 2-seconds before you’re hit feel like minutes as you drop your drink, put both hands on the wheel and try to slam on your brakes. But it’s too late. The airbags deploy, punching you in the face and you feel your chest constrict as the seatbelt absorbs the impact. Thankfully, you’re okay. Just a few bruises and some cracked ribs.
However, upon getting out of the car, you find out the other driver (who’s clearly at fault) doesn’t have auto insurance! Things just went from bad to worse. In this post, we’re going to give you a quick overview of exactly what to do if you’re hit by an uninsured driver.
What To Do If You’re Hit By An Uninsured Driver
According to some of the latest data acquired, around 13% of all drivers in the U.S. are uninsured. While it’s a legal requirement in all states to carry a basic liability policy, some are either unable to afford it or just don’t care enough to purchase insurance. This can mean that you get the short end of the stick if you get hit by one of these drivers. Here are the steps you should take if you’re hit by an uninsured driver.
Step 1: Call The Police or First Responders
First, call the police or 911. They will file the accident report, talk to both parties, and figure out which party is at fault. They may also be able to dissolve any disputes as emotions can get heated after a car accident.
Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company
While the police are filing the accident report, take a minute to call your insurance company and inform them of the situation. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what information you need to record and what steps to take to ensure that you’re in a good position to be compensated.
Step 3: Using Your Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers Insurance
If you have collision insurance and/or uninsured/underinsured drivers insurance, then take a deep breath, because everything should be covered. This type of insurance is usually included in “full coverage” policies and is designed to pay for your medical bills and repairs if you’re hit by an uninsured driver and you’re not at fault. Within 24 to 48 hours after the accident, a claims adjuster will evaluate the costs of your medical bills and vehicle repairs.
As repairs and medical visits are made, you’ll be compensated and repaid. If your vehicle is declared a total loss (the cost of repairs is at least 60% of the value of the vehicle itself), then the insurance company will give you a lump sum based on the current market value of the car. You can then use this money to purchase a similar vehicle.
What If I Don’t Have Uninsured Drivers Insurance?
If you don’t have uninsured drivers insurance (which pays for property damage and your medical bills) or collision insurance (which pays for your vehicle repairs), then you’re in a tougher position. Your best bet is to contact a personal injury lawyer. They’ll be able to work with you to create a case so that you can sue the other uninsured driver.
You’ll usually be able to negotiate enough money to pay for your medical bills and the cost of your repairs. The lawyers will usually negotiate their fee into the settlement amount, so you shouldn’t even have to pay them upfront!
