Legal Options If You Were Hit By an Uninsured Motorist
Springfield, Missouri, is a bustling city with heavy traffic and a growing population. Unfortunately, some drivers on the road do not carry proper insurance, making accidents more challenging for victims. Getting into a car accident is already stressful, but it becomes even more complicated when the other driver does not have insurance.
Car insurance is required by law in most states, yet many drivers still operate their vehicles without coverage. If you are hit by an uninsured motorist, you may wonder how to cover your medical bills and repair costs. A Springfield uninsured motorist attorney can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who is an Uninsured Motorist?
An uninsured motorist is a driver who does not have the legally required car insurance. Some drivers may allow their policies to lapse due to financial struggles, while others deliberately avoid purchasing insurance.
According to the Insurance Research Council, one in eight drivers in the U.S. is uninsured. This means that if you are in an accident, there is a significant chance the other driver may not have coverage. In states like Missouri, uninsured drivers can face penalties, but that does not help you recover your losses after an accident.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
The first step after being hit by an uninsured driver is to check your own insurance policy. Many policies include Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage, which helps pay for medical expenses and damages when the at-fault driver lacks insurance.
If you have UM coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company. Your insurance provider will review the claim and determine how much compensation you can receive. You’ll be required to provide necessary details, such as:
- A copy of the police report
- Photos of the accident scene and damages
- Medical records related to your injuries
- Witness statements
File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your losses exceed what your insurance covers, or if you do not have UM coverage, you may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the uninsured driver. This legal action allows you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering property damage.
However, one challenge in suing an uninsured driver is that they may not have the financial ability to pay the settlement. Even if you win the case, collecting the awarded amount can be difficult. A lawyer can assess whether suing the driver is a practical option in your situation.
Other Avenues for Seeking Compensation
Aside from your insurance and legal action, there are other ways to recover compensation, such as:
- Collision Coverage – If you have this coverage, your insurance company can pay for vehicle repairs, regardless of who was at fault.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage – This can help cover medical expenses for you and your passengers.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – In some states, PIP coverage helps pay for medical bills and lost wages, regardless of fault.
- Employer Liability – If the uninsured driver was working at the time of the accident (such as a delivery driver), their employer may be held responsible.
- Third-Party Liability – If the accident was caused by a defective car part or poorly maintained roads, you may have a claim against a manufacturer or government entity.
Conclusion
Being hit by an uninsured motorist can be overwhelming, but there are legal ways to seek compensation. Reviewing your insurance policy, considering a lawsuit, and exploring alternative options can help cover your damages.
Since navigating these claims can be complex, consulting an experienced attorney is highly recommended. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and take legal action if necessary. Seeking legal guidance ensures you receive the financial support needed to recover from the accident.
Pranab Bhandari is an Editor of the Financial Blog “Financebuzz”. Apart from writing informative financial articles for his blog, he is a regular contributor to many national and international publications namely Tweak Your Biz, Growth Rocks ETC.
