When you’re involved in a car accident, the last thing you want to hear is that the other driver isn’t insured—it can turn an already difficult situation into an even more complicated one.
What happens if someone hits you without insurance? How will you pay for the damages or handle any medical expenses? These questions can overwhelm anyone, especially when you’re shaken up from an accident.
In such moments, knowing your next steps is crucial, but figuring them out isn’t always straightforward. This is where understanding what to do if an uninsured driver hits you becomes essential.
At Hunter | Everage, our experienced Montgomery car accident lawyers understand the frustration and confusion when you’re hit by an uninsured driver. That’s why we’re here to help guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself and seek compensation.
Steps to Take Immediately After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver
The moments after an accident are critical, especially when the other driver doesn’t have insurance. Follow these steps to protect yourself and build a strong case:
- Get Medical Attention: Sometimes, injuries caused by car accidents aren’t immediately apparent. It’s advisable to see a healthcare provider for a thorough check-up. This is not only important for your health, but medical records also serve as crucial evidence if you pursue a claim for injuries.
- Call the Police: Even if the accident seems minor, having a police report is crucial, especially when dealing with an uninsured driver. The report will provide an official record of the incident, which is vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information. Even though they’re uninsured, having their personal information is essential for your records and any future claims or legal actions.
- Document the Scene: Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, all vehicles involved, and any visible damages. If there are skid marks, traffic signs, or other relevant factors, photograph those too.
- Look for Witnesses: If any bystanders saw what happened, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can help prove what occurred, especially in the absence of insurance information from the other driver.
Then, once you’ve completed these steps and you’re safe back home, it’s time to think about filing a personal injury claim against the uninsured driver.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against an Uninsured Driver
The first thing to consider is that uninsured drivers may not have the financial resources to pay out of pocket for the damages they cause. This reality doesn’t mean you should forego taking action, but it does influence how you approach the situation.
Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can do:
1. Review Your Insurance Policy
Begin by reviewing your car insurance policy. You may have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which is designed to step in and cover costs when the at-fault driver lacks insurance. UM coverage can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
2. File a Claim With Your Insurer
Notify your insurance company about the accident and the fact that the other driver was uninsured. Provide all the documentation you have to support your claim. Your insurer should guide you through the process of claiming under your UM coverage.
3. Consult With an Attorney
An experienced attorney can provide guidance, especially if your insurance coverage isn’t sufficient to cover your losses. An attorney can help you understand whether pursuing legal action against the uninsured driver is a viable option based on their assets and your specific circumstances.
4. Consider Legal Action
If it’s likely that the uninsured driver has assets or means to pay, your attorney might recommend filing a lawsuit to pursue damages.
For guidance on the next steps after you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, reach out to the team at Hunter | Everage at 704-377-9157. We can support you through this difficult time, offering a helping hand every step of the way.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Protects You
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is your safety net when you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance.
Accidents involving uninsured drivers can leave you wondering how you’ll cover medical bills, car repairs, or lost wages. That’s where UM coverage steps in—it ensures you’re not left shouldering the financial burden caused by someone else’s negligence.
This type of coverage helps cover the costs of medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering resulting from the accident. It also extends to property damage, like repairs to your vehicle, depending on the specifics of your policy.
Why You Should Consult an Attorney for Uninsured Driver Cases
An attorney can help you make sense of the complexities involved. They’ll start by thoroughly investigating the accident and gathering evidence, such as police reports and witness statements. They’ll also collate your medical records to build a strong case.
If your own insurance company is reluctant to pay out on your uninsured motorist coverage, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
A skilled attorney can help you explore all potential avenues for recovery. This might include filing a lawsuit against the uninsured driver, even though they might not have the means to pay.
Sometimes, other parties could be liable too, like an employer or vehicle owner, which your attorney can determine.
Handling legal procedures and deadlines is complex. Filing a lawsuit involves multiple steps that need to be executed precisely and timely. Our car accident lawyers in Montgomery are adept at managing these tasks and can help ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
Contact an Experienced Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer
The immediate steps you take can significantly impact the resolution of your case. Before even considering the legalities, it’s crucial to prioritize your health. Getting prompt medical treatment not only aids your recovery but also solidifies your legal claim by documenting your injuries.
With more than 35 years of combined experience in handling personal injury and car accident cases, our team is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of accidents involving uninsured drivers.
We are here to support the struggling, the hard-working, the little guy—anyone feeling helpless or desperate. Our approach is compassionate and personalized, recognizing that each client’s situation is unique and requires more than a one-size-fits-all solution. We will stand by your side, offering trusted legal help when you’re hurting.
If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver and are unsure of what happens next, contact Hunter | Everage at 704-377-9157 for a free case review.