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What happens if I’m hit by an uninsured driver?

On Behalf of | Nov 18, 2020 | Car Accidents

Being involved in a car accident is scary and stressful. In those moments right after the crash, you are worried about if you’ve received any injuries and if everyone else in your car is OK. Then, you may find out that the driver who hit your vehicle doesn’t have auto insurance. Now, added stress sets in. Who will compensate you for your injury costs and the damage to your car?

What your auto insurance policy covers

First, about 13% of drivers nationwide don’t have insurance, according to a 2017 Insurance Information Institute report. In West Virginia and Ohio, when you are involved in an accident with a driver without insurance, your auto insurance likely will cover the costs of your injuries and damage to your car.

In order to get maximum compensation for your injuries, you should take these steps after the accident:

  1. Report the accident to police, even if the uninsured driver wants to avoid filing a police report. Your insurance company will want a record of when and where the accident occurred and what witnesses report happened.
  2. Seek medical attention right away. If your injuries aren’t severe enough you need medical attention at the accident scene, still get your injuries treated as soon as possible. You want a record of what injuries you sustained in the accident and what your doctor’s treatment plan is for them.
  3. Check the declarations page of your auto insurance policy for what your coverage is for accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers.
  4. Inform your insurance company about the accident.

When to seek an attorney’s help

Contact a personal injury attorney if you have any problems getting your injury costs covered or before you accept any settlement from your insurance company. Insurance companies, even your own, often offer low-ball injury settlements so they can avoid having to pay ongoing medical bills.

You want to focus on your recovery and getting your life back to normal after an auto accident. You may need an attorney’s help to get the compensation you need so you can move forward.

 

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