Is there anything I can do if I’m hit by an uninsured driver?
Car accidents are, at the very least, incredibly frustrating. It is especially maddening when you
aren’t responsible for the collision. The only relief is that it wasn’t your fault and the other driver will have to cover the cost of related car repairs and medical bills…right?
Wrong.
Approximately one out of every seven drivers does not have any car insurance at all. This is, of
course, illegal… but true. Another problem is that many drivers are “under-insured,” meaning
that their insurance coverage is simply not enough to pay for the damages they have caused.
You are left with two options: purchase “uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage” under
your own insurance policy or pursue litigation.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage
This coverage is an addition to your own liability insurance policy that covers the costs
associated with injuries and property damage caused by someone else who has either no
auto insurance or not enough auto insurance. You choose the coverage amount and it
does increase your premium, but the increased premium are dwarfed by the out-of-pocket
expenses you might incur as a result of being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Peace of mind is priceless when it comes to your family, your passengers, and your
property.
Pursue Litigation
While this might be an option, it usually proves to be a fruitless one. Often, a driver who
feels unable to purchase sufficient or any auto insurance is also without many assets.
Even if a judge rules in your favor and the defendant is ordered to pay damages, the
amount and payment schedule usually does little to help with the injured party’s
immediate expenses.
It doesn’t seem fair, but the surest way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the
negligence of another driver is to purchase uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage as part
of your own auto insurance policy. If you are feeling overwhelmed and confused, we can help
you better understand all of your options.
