Being in a car accident is stressful enough without adding the complication of dealing with an uninsured driver. But despite laws requiring drivers to carry insurance, many people either let their policies lapse or choose to drive uninsured.
So, what happens if you are hit by an uninsured driver? There are steps you can take immediately after the accident to protect yourself, and resources available to help you get through the process.
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand how overwhelming an accident with an uninsured driver can be. You’re not just dealing with the physical and emotional toll of the crash—you’re also figuring out how to handle the financial and legal aftermath. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you get back on track.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
If you find yourself involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver, the steps you take can be critical for your well-being and the outcome of any potential claims.
- Check for Injuries: If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, get medical attention, as some symptoms might not appear right away.
- Call the Police: The police will document the scene and create an official report, which is crucial for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information. Since the driver is uninsured, also collect as much information as possible about the vehicle, including the license plate number and description.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident from different angles, capturing the damage to all vehicles involved, the overall scene, any landmarks, and road conditions. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
- Notify Your InsuranceCompany: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Explain that the other driver is uninsured, and provide them with all the collected information and evidence.
- Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer: After an accident with an uninsured driver, having a lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Our team will help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, fight for your compensation in court.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: What It Is and How It Works
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is a part of your car insurance policy designed to protect you if you’re in an accident caused by an uninsured driver.
If you’re in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, your UM coverage can help pay for damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes even pain and suffering.
The amount UM coverage can pay out depends on the limits set in your policy. For example, if your policy has a $50,000 UM limit, that’s the maximum amount your insurance will pay for injuries or damages covered under the policy.
Every insurance policy is different, so it’s important to know what your UM coverage includes. Take a look at your policy and check the limits, which is the maximum amount your insurance company will pay. You should also see if there’s a deductible—this is the amount you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.
Avoiding Common Mistakes After a Car Accident With an Uninsured Driver
One of the biggest mistakes people make is failing to gather enough information at the scene.
Even though the other driver doesn’t have insurance, it’s still crucial to exchange contact information, including their name, phone number, and vehicle details. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your car, the other vehicle, and any visible injuries.
Another common mistake is neglecting to call the police. Many people think they can handle the situation on their own, but having an official police report is critical. It provides an unbiased account of the accident and is often required when dealing with your insurance company.
Finally, it’s tempting to settle matters informally, especially if the uninsured driver offers to pay out of pocket for damages.
While this might seem simpler, it often leads to complications down the road. Formalizing the process through your insurance company ensures that you have the backing and documentation needed should you require further recourse.
Compensation You Can Get After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
Here’s a breakdown of the types of compensation you might receive after a car accident with an uninsured driver:
- Medical Expenses: If you’re hurt in the accident, you can recover costs for hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medication.
- Lost Wages: An accident can leave you unable to work for days, weeks, or even longer. You may be able to get compensation for the income you missed while recovering.
- Pain and Suffering: Injuries don’t just cause physical pain—they also disrupt your life. You might be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, reduced quality of life, or ongoing physical discomfort.
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: If your car was damaged, UM coverage insurance can help pay for repairs or replacement.
In some cases, the compensation from your UM coverage might not cover everything. If this happens, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the uninsured driver. This is why having a skilled car accident lawyer on your side is important.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in South Carolina Today
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand the emotional and financial toll a car accident can take on your life. We’ve helped countless clients navigate the challenges of accidents involving uninsured drivers, and we’re here to help you too.
Contact our car accident lawyers at 803-432-4391 for a free consultation. Let us handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on healing and getting back to your life.