What to Do if You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver?
However, being struck by an uninsured motorist may be a stressful and unpleasant situation. The at-fault motorist might not be able to pay for your repairs if they aren’t covered by insurance. There are, however, measures you may take to safeguard your possessions and your money.
Collect Data on the Spot
The first thing to do after an accident is to collect information on the spot. Make sure you and the other driver both have each other’s contact details, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers. Document the collision by snapping photos of your car and the other vehicle. Get the details of any potential eyewitnesses as well.
Please Report the Incident
If the other motorist urges you not to report the collision to the police, you should still do so. By doing so, the mishap may be recorded formally, which can come in handy in the future. In addition, depending on the severity of the damage or injuries, you may be required to notify the police in some jurisdictions.
Get in Touch with Your Insurance Agency
Report the incident to your insurance carrier as soon as you can. They can help you file a claim & will give you advice on what to do next. You may be able to collect compensation from your own insurance company even if the other motorist is uninsured.
Declare Damages from an Uninsured Driver
An uninsured motorist claim can be filed with your own insurance carrier if the other driver is uninsured. If you are hit by an underinsured or uninsured motorist, this coverage will help pay for your medical bills and other related costs. It can help pay for things like hospital bills, missed earnings, and property repairs.
Take It To Court
It may be compulsory to take legal action if the other motorist caused extensive damage and did not have insurance. A lawyer can help you weigh your legal choices and file a claim for damages. The other motorist may be sued, or a settlement may be reached with the latter’s insurance carrier.
Get your financial house in order
If the other motorist does not have insurance and the damages are substantial, you need to take precautions to ensure your financial security. You might work out a payment plan with your mechanic or see a financial planner for help with this. It is also a good idea to see a bankruptcy lawyer if you’re having trouble making ends meet.
Think Ahead and Plan Ahead
Last but not least, it’s crucial to plan ahead. It’s crucial to have enough insurance protections in place since accidents can occur at any time. Think about having comprehensive collision coverage on your own policy, and raising your uninsured motorist coverage. In the case of an accident, this can assist guarantee your safety.
Conclusion
It’s upsetting and distressing when an uninsured motorist causes an accident. There are, however, measures you may take to safeguard your possessions and your money. Get information from witnesses, call the police, and then your insurance company as quickly as you can after an accident. You can file a claim with your own insurance carrier for damages caused by an uninsured motorist, and you should be ready to take legal action if necessary. Lastly, increase your insurance coverage to safeguard your assets and get ready for the future.