We’ve all dreaded this situation…You’re driving along, and suddenly you find yourself in a car accident. The worst part? The other driver doesn’t have adequate insurance to cover the damages. What do you do when you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist?
In this unfortunate situation, you’ll need to know a few tricks. We’ll walk you through how to assess the damages, identify the other driver’s insurance company, and make sure you get compensated.
If you need legal advice or help after a car accident, Injury.io can help you get connected to the right resources.
4 Steps To Take After Being Hit By an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist
When it comes to car accidents, it’s important to know your rights and options. These are the steps necessary to protect yourself and your finances in the event of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Step 1: Understand Your Own Insurance Coverage
When faced with an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you must understand your insurance coverage. That’s because many car insurance policies include Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM). This type of coverage may help pay for damages that you’re legally entitled to recover from an at-fault driver who does not have enough liability insurance.
If you do not have this type of coverage, you may need to make a claim against the other driver’s insurance policy if they have one. If they don’t, you can pursue legal action against them directly. However, you should contact your own insurer even if you do not have UIM coverage, as they may be able to assist in some way.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
No matter what course of action you take, getting documentation and witnesses supporting your claim that the other driver was at fault is important. This includes:
- Contact information from any passengers or witnesses
- Pictures of the damage to both cars and the surrounding area
- A written, detailed account of what happened during the accident
- An official police report
- Copies of all documents related to the accident
Gathering this information is essential in ensuring that you have all the necessary evidence needed should you need to make a claim with your insurance company or take legal action against an uninsured or underinsured motorist. It’s important that you keep these documents safe and easily accessible in case they’re needed later.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention ASAP
It’s crucial to seek medical attention after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so always get checked out by a doctor, just in case.
Be sure to document any medical expenses incurred due to the accident and keep all receipts and paperwork related to treatment. This will help prove that your injuries are related to the accident when filing a claim for compensation later.
Step 4: File A Claim With Your Insurance Provider
When you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you need to file a claim with your insurance provider. Your insurance company should be able to provide some coverage for any expenses resulting from the accident. This includes medical bills and car repairs.
However, get in touch with them as soon as possible. Filing a claim quickly will help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Additionally, make sure to keep detailed records of all conversations and documents related to your insurance provider.
With this information, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the situation and receive fair compensation for any damages from being hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
Hit By an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist?
If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, take immediate steps to make sure you’re taken care of. By following the steps we’ve reviewed, you can protect yourself and recover from this difficult situation with as little stress and financial burden as possible.
If you need help finding resources after a car accident, contact Injury.io!
