Although every car crash is stressful, a collision with an uninsured driver can be especially upsetting. If the investigation reveals that the uninsured motorist caused the accident through negligence, you deserve to be compensated for any resulting injuries or damage. What should you do to ensure that you receive compensation despite the driver’s lack of insurance? How can you be sure that your claim is fully investigated and that the negligent driver is held responsible? What should you do if your insurance company refuses to cover the accident? If you have been involved in a collision with an uninsured driver, follow the guidelines below.
Collision with an Uninsured Driver
IMMEDIATE CONCERNS
Immediately after the accident, contact the police so that they can create a report. This may be needed for insurance claims or litigation later. Don’t move your car until the police arrive. In addition, exchange contact information with the other driver. This includes names, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and any insurance information.
UNINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE
Contact your insurance company to notify them of the accident. In Missouri, drivers are required by law to have uninsured motorist coverage with minimum policy limits of $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident. This is additional insurance coverage that protects drivers involved in an accident with someone who is both uninsured and found to be responsible for the collision.
MAKING A CLAIM
Before making a claim against your insurance company for underinsured motorist benefits, as we mentioned above, be sure to contact an experienced lawyer. Their advice will be crucial throughout the claims process. Upon learning the details of your particular situation, your attorney can help you decide what sort of legal action to take. They can also handle the complex, technical, and sometimes frustrating legal work required.
In some cases, you will actually need to sue your own insurance company, not the uninsured driver. If your insurance should cover the accident, but the insurance company attempts to minimize the damages so that they don’t have to provide as much compensation, you can file a lawsuit against the insurance company. Some insurance companies may even try to claim that you played a role in the accident or dispute the extent of your injuries. Discuss the circumstances with your attorney for personalized advice.
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Were you involved in a collision with an uninsured driver? Contact the law firm of Replogle, Tyrrell, & Robertson. Our experienced and dedicated attorneys will fully investigate your claim and seek out all potential sources of recompense to maximize your recovery. For more information, please call 417-319-7010 (office in Marshfield, MO) or 417-319-2116 (office in Springfield, MO). You can also contact us online. We would be happy to help you pursue justice and compensation for your loss.
