Getting into a car accident can be stressful enough without having to worry about how you’re going to recover the damages if the other driver doesn’t have insurance. Unfortunately, this is a common problem, and many people find themselves in this situation without realizing they have options for recovery. In this vlog, we’ll talk about what you can do if an uninsured driver hits you and how having the right insurance coverage can make a world of difference.
What to Do If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance
If the other driver who caused the accident doesn’t have insurance, you may feel stuck, wondering how you’re going to cover the damages. The good news is, you don’t have to rely solely on the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage. A lawyer can help you recover money from your own insurance company, provided you have the right coverage in place. Specifically, underinsured motorist (UIM) and uninsured motorist (UM) protection are key types of coverage that can step in when the other driver is uninsured or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages.
These types of coverage are important because they can help you avoid being left with the financial burden after an accident. Unfortunately, insurance agents often downplay or fail to offer this coverage, even though it can provide valuable protection for drivers. That’s why it’s important to consult with a lawyer before you get into an accident to ensure that you have the right level of coverage. A lawyer can help you understand how this protection works and make sure you’re fully covered when there’s an accident.
The Problem of Uninsured Drivers in California
In California, there’s a significant number of drivers on the road who are either uninsured or driving vehicles that are unregistered. Studies show that about one in eight drivers in California is uninsured. This means that you could encounter someone who doesn’t have the proper insurance to cover your medical bills or vehicle repairs if they cause an accident.
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured, it’s important to understand how your own insurance can step in to cover the costs. Having uninsured motorist protection allows your own insurance company to step in and pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, up to the limits of your policy. This ensures that you’re not left with a financial mess when the other driver doesn’t have the assets to pay for the damages.
How to Protect Yourself from the Unexpected
The best way to protect yourself from the potential financial strain of an uninsured driver is by making sure you have adequate uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage in place. Before you get behind the wheel, it’s wise to review your insurance policy with a lawyer to ensure you have the right coverage to handle situations where the other driver is uninsured or doesn’t have enough coverage.
If you don’t currently have this protection or aren’t sure whether your policy covers you adequately, it’s never too late to talk to a lawyer about how to update your policy. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal side of your insurance and give you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in the event of an accident.
Need Help Recovering from an Uninsured Driver?
If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured driver, it’s crucial to have legal guidance to help you recover the compensation you deserve. The process of filing claims and getting the most out of your insurance can be complex, but a lawyer can make sure you get the maximum recovery possible. At Findley Law, we specialize in helping clients recover from accidents caused by uninsured drivers.
If you’d like to discuss your case or learn more about uninsured motorist protection, don’t hesitate to contact Brian Findley at Findley Law. Call us today at 619-860-1712 or visit our office at 1620 Fifth Avenue, Suite 625, San Diego, CA 92101. Let us help you navigate this challenging situation and make sure you get the compensation you deserve!