Hit By An Uninsured Driver? What To Do Next

State laws require that all drivers carry at least a minimum amount of auto insurance on their vehicles. However, the unfortunate reality is that not every driver abides by this law. If you've been hit by an uninsured driver, you know about this issue all too well. Compared to an insured driver, handling an accident involving an uninsured driver does come along with a different set of parameters and steps. To ensure you can get some level of compensation for your property damage and injuries, learn how to move forward with your case.

Police Report

Make certain you get a police report after your accident. The fact that the driver does not have insurance does not mean that the accident should not be reported. Keep in mind; if you don't have a police report you will not be able to move forward with a claim for compensation, as the report is a record that the collision did occur. 

It's also important to have a police report generated so that you can collect all the driver's information. While it might sound unheard of, some drivers will claim they don't have insurance just so that the collision is not reported to their own insurance company. If you have a police report generated, all of the driver's information will be included in the report so that you can verify their coverage status. 

Check Insurance

It's always a good idea to check your car insurance when you are in this situation. A large portion of these types of incidents resolve with the accident victim filing a claim against their own insurance company. 

It's important to check your insurance policy to see if you have coverage for uninsured motorists, as you will need to file a claim against this portion of your policy to cover your losses. If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, you will be unable to seek compensation with this method. 

Personal Lawsuit

If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage or the driver that hit you has the financial means to pay for your losses or injuries, but refuses to do so willingly, you can file a personal lawsuit against the other driver. Preparing a case for the lawsuit should be very much the same as submitting a claim to an insurance policy. 

You will need to include a detailed record of your damages and injuries to prove to the court that the other driver was negligent and is liable for your losses. Keep in mind; if you live in a no-fault state, you will typically not be able to sue the other driver for your losses. 

If you are in this situation, it's a good idea to speak with an auto accident law firm to help you move forward with your case.

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