The moments and days after a car accident can often seem confusing and frantic. Whether the car accident was severe or minor, you hope that your car has insurance coverage that will help cover your expenses. However, some at-fault drivers do not have car insurance. In that case, learning your options can be extremely beneficial. A reputable lawyer can explain to you whether you have uninsured motorist coverage that will cover you, if personal injury protection or collision coverage can be applied to your case, and whether it would be in your best interests to sue the uninsured driver.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If your accident was caused by an uninsured driver, you are going to have to turn to your insurance company to see if they will cover the losses. In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured, you are going to have to rely on uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage. In Pennsylvania, UIM coverage is not required, and drivers must opt-out for the coverage in writing.
While most states require the minimum of liability insurance in order to drive, that does not discourage some motorists from getting behind the wheel of a car without insurance. Depending on your UIM coverage, you may only have protection for injuries. Your best bet is to consult with your insurance company and see whether you will need to purchase an add-on that would cover damage.
Underinsured motorist coverage will help cover the discrepancy between the other driver’s coverage and the full sum of your damages. It is important to note that many insurance companies limit the time frame that a policyholder can make on an uninsured motorist accident, along with underinsured motorist claims.
How Should I Handle a Car Accident With an Uninsured Driver?
After your car accident, you are going to want to exchange insurance information with the other driver. If they tell you that they do not have insurance coverage, then it would be wise for you to call the police so that they can document the car accident with a report. Whether the other driver has insurance or not, calling the police is always an essential step to take after any car accident.
If an at-fault driver does not have insurance and offers you money, do not accept it. Motorists know that they need to have car insurance to drive on Pennsylvania roadways, and the at-fault driver knows this and will try to circumvent the legal repercussions of driving without insurance. Without knowing the severity of your injuries or how much it is going to cost to repair your car, it is in your best interest to deny immediate monetary compensation.
Even though the at-fault driver does not have insurance, you still want to get their vehicle and contact information. If witnesses are present, asking them for their contact information as well as their statements will benefit you in the claims process. Document any necessary information, such as the make and model of the car, time, and location of the accident. Also, take pictures, as they will document any damages sustained to the vehicles involved.
Chester County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks are Ready to Fight for You if You Have Been Injured by an Uninsured Driver
Although every motorist is required by law to have car insurance, there are those who seek to get behind the wheel without even basic coverage. If you were injured by an uninsured driver, contact our Chester County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. today. Call us at 610-565-3701 or complete our online form for an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.