Handling the aftermath of a car accident is difficult enough, but when the other driver doesn’t carry car insurance, your situation may seem dire. Although car insurance is typically a state requirement, some drivers decide to take their chances and go without it.
If you live in a state where uninsured motorist coverage is an option, you may have an easier time with the process. Utilize these four tips in the minutes and days following an accident with an uninsured motorist.
- File a Police Report
After every crash, you should call the police to the scene. Some municipalities do not send officers to non-injury accidents. However, if you tell them the other driver does not have insurance, the police may come out. The report that is taken can help the insurance company determine liability and is helpful to have when it comes to filing a claim. You will also want to take pictures of the damage to the cars and any other relevant evidence at the scene.
- Get the Driver’s Information
Information is usually swapped after an accident, including insurance information. The other driver won’t have this to provide. Instead, get their license, registration and Vehicle Identification Number. This could all help the insurance company find the driver should a lawsuit get filed for damages.
- Don’t Take a PayoutÂ
Some uninsured drivers may try to get you to shy away from calling the authorities after an accident. In many states, car insurance is a requirement, and as such, the police may issue them a ticket for not having it. In some cases, uninsured drivers try to get you to accept money at the scene in exchange for dropping any formal claims and police process. Do not take any payment from the uninsured driver, or it may wind up costing you down the road.
- Get Medical AttentionÂ
If you get hurt in an accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. When dealing with an accident claim, health insurance companies may expect reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance. However, if that does not exist, they may continue to pay out for your injuries. The only exception is if you have uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage through your carrier. Then, you may get relief from this source. Otherwise, you will be responsible for your deductible.
A car accident law firm in Des Moines, IA may prove valuable in assisting you with an uninsured motorist claim. Take some time to find one in your area who can help.
Thanks to Johnston Martineau, LLP for their insight into personal injury claims and tips for dealing with uninsured drivers after a car accident.