If you are injured in a car accident, and the other driver is uninsured, there are several options for covering your injuries and damages:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your own auto insurance policy, it can help compensate for your injuries and damages. UM coverage is not mandatory in Pennsylvania, but it is highly recommended.
- Personal Injury Lawsuit: If the other driver was at fault and is also uninsured, you may have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. However, it is important to consider whether the other driver has sufficient assets or income to cover your damages. Even if you obtain a judgment in your favor, there’s no guarantee that you will be able to collect the full amount awarded to you.
To fully understand your options and the specific laws and regulations, it is recommended to consult with a Car Accident Attorneys. They can evaluate your case, explain the applicable laws, and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation for your injuries and damages.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?
Uninsured motorist coverage is an insurance policy that protects you if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver or a driver lacking sufficient coverage to compensate you for your injuries and damages. Uninsured motorist coverage typically works as follows:
- Coverage Scope: Uninsured motorist coverage is intended to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Claim Process: If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you likely would file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage.
- Limits and Deductibles: Uninsured motorist coverage comes with certain limits, which represent the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered claim. Deductibles may also apply, requiring you to pay a certain amount out of pocket costs before the coverage kicks in.
- Hit-and-Run Coverage: Some uninsured motorist policies also provide coverage for hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver leaves the scene and cannot be identified.
- Subrogation: If your insurance company pays a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage, they may have the right to subrogation.
How To Pursue Compensation From An Uninsured Driver?
Pursuing compensation from an uninsured driver can be challenging, but here are some general steps you can take:
- Gather Information: Collect as much information as possible about the uninsured driver, including their name, contact details, license plate number, and other relevant information about the accident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with all the necessary details. If you have UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, your insurance company may compensate you for your injuries and damages up to the limits of your coverage.
- File a Lawsuit: In some cases, it may be necessary to sue an uninsured driver for damages. Before doing so, it may be necessary to consult with a personal injury attorney to determine if filing a lawsuit is a viable option.
- Explore Other Potential Sources of Compensation: Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there may be other avenues for seeking compensation. For example, if the accident was caused by a defective vehicle component, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor.
Will My Insurance Cover an Uninsured Driver Accident?
The regulations regarding insurance coverage for uninsured drivers can vary from state to state. UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy can provide protection if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.
You can file a claim with your insurance company to seek compensation up to the limits of your UM coverage.
Can an Uninsured Driver Drive My Car?
When a person borrows a car, the owner’s insurance policy usually extends coverage to the borrowed vehicle. This means that if the insured driver causes an accident, their insurance policy would generally be the primary source of coverage for any resulting damages or injuries.
However, it’s important to note that insurance policies can have specific terms and conditions, including exclusions or limitations on coverage for borrowed vehicles.
In the case of an uninsured driver, the situation can become more complicated. If an uninsured driver, without the owner’s permission, were to borrow a car and get into an accident, the insurance coverage available for the vehicle might not apply, potentially leaving the vehicle owner liable for damages.
To protect yourself and your vehicle, it is generally advisable to ensure that anyone who uses your vehicle is properly insured and has a valid driver’s license and to ensure you understand your insurance policy’s rules and stipulations
Need Legal Help? Contact The Law Offices of Samuel Fishman
If you were in an accident involving an uninsured driver and need legal assistance, contact The Law Offices of Samuel Fishman. Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be challenging, especially when the responsible party is uninsured.
With more than 30 years of experience, they can provide the guidance you need to help navigate the legal process. Schedule a free case consultation or call 215-464-4600 for a review of your legal options.