What To Do If The Other Driver Doesn’t Have Car Insurance In An Auto Accident
REMAIN CALM, AND FOLLOW THIS GUIDE!
Even if you are in a simple fender-bender, car wrecks are always frustrating, time consuming, and stressful, especially if they are not your fault. It’s a nice relief knowing that insurance is there to cover the cost of an accident, but what if the other driver doesn’t have auto insurance?
The first thing you should do in any car accident is call the police. The police will explore any illegal activity made by the other driver. If the other driver turns out to be uninsured, this will make the claims process much smoother. The uninsured driver might try to resolve the issue by paying you directly, but do not accept their money! The costs of repairs or injuries might greatly exceed what the other driver estimated.
You should also get the other driver’s information. Even if the car accident is small, make sure you get their number. You or your claims adjuster may need to contact them in the future. In addition, it’s very important that you take pictures of the scene. Snap a picture of your personal injuries, the other driver’s injuries, your vehicle, and the other driver’s vehicle. This is evidence that will come in handy for your insurance provider. Even if the accident was your fault, you have proof of the exact injuries and damage resulting from the collision.
Next, call your insurance provider as soon as you can. Details are important when it comes to your story against the other driver’s. Unfortunately, if the other driver does not have insurance, it is probable that your own insurance will have to cover the damage from the wreck.
Last but not least, CALL A LAWYER! Specfically one that specializes in Car Wrecks. If you live in a no-fault car insurance state, you will likely not be able to file a lawsuit against the other driver. You may have the option to file a lawsuit against the other driver if you live in a traditional negligence state, but people without car insurance might not have the money to engage in a lawsuit. This might be a losing effort, and you might not be able to receive any reimbursement from the other driver.
However, there are a few options of additional insurance for an auto accident with an uninsured driver. Uninsured motorist coverage protects you in this situation. Double check to see if you are located in a state where this coverage is required—you may already have this insurance. Most insurance companies offer it in other states, so it’s a good idea to inquire about it for future reference.
Collision coverage is another option that will pay for the damages incurred from an uninsured driver who is faulted for the auto collision. This insurance will not cover injuries. Regrettably, if the other driver in your car wreck is uninsured, the insurance process is always much more complicated.
Understanding and researching your options is a great way to be prepared for the future just in case this incident happens again.