Unfortunately, the rate of uninsured drivers in Florida is among the highest in the United States. These uninsured drivers can create financial hardship for others on the road.
If you’re involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver, it’s important to know what to do and how to proceed. Understanding uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM)—and knowing when to call a lawyer—can help you drive safely on the road. In this article, we’ll go over the steps to take after a car accident with an uninsured motorist. Taking fast action can help you make a quicker recovery after an accident occurs.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Call the Authorities
In the moments after an accident, the first thing you should do is check for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 9-1-1. If there are minor injuries, it’s still important to contact the authorities. A police report may be required if you must file an insurance claim.
Move to safety (away from traffic, if possible), then collect details from the other driver, including photographs of their driver’s license and license plates. If there are witnesses, collect their information. Take photos of your vehicle, the accident scene, and any damage to the road or other vehicles.
It’s natural to feel panicked after an accident, especially when you learn the other driver has no insurance. Staying calm can help you make wise choices, which in turn can help you avoid missteps.
If you’re in an accident with an uninsured motorist, contact Tom Ueberschaer for guidance.
Step 2: Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Don’t delay medical treatment when you’re in a car accident. Waiting to see a doctor can worsen injuries. Florida’s no-fault/PIP laws require treatment within 14 days. Even if the injuries aren’t obvious, having documentation about minor injuries can help ensure you can file future claims. See a doctor, even if you have only a few bruises and some sore muscles.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
Don’t wait to contact your insurance company. It’s essential that you report the accident as soon as possible. Don’t forget there are deadlines for making claims against your insurance.
Your insurer may cover initial medical expenses under PIP. To begin the process of triggering UM/UIM coverage, tell your insurance company you plan to file a claim. Your insurance company will lead you through the process.
Step 4: Understand How UM/UIM Coverage Works in Florida
Uninsured motorist (UM) insurance covers situations where the at-fault driver is uninsured. There’s another type of insurance, called underinsured motorist (UIM), which helps when the driver has insufficient coverage. While these types of insurance are offered as optional add-ons, they are effectively essential in Florida, where so many uninsured and underinsured motorists are on the road every day.
When it comes time to file a claim, you will file with your own insurance. UM and UIM insurance can be used to pay for medical bills and recover economic damages that result from your accident.
Step 5: Explore Other Coverage Options
You may have a variety of options to explore when you’re trying to recover after an accident caused by an uninsured motorist. Here are some examples of options to explore:
- PIP (Personal Injury Protection): This is one of your go-to resources when you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
- Health insurance as a backup: If you have health insurance, it can cover costs not covered by PIP.
- Property damage coverage for vehicle repairs: If you have collision insurance, this will pay for vehicle repairs, regardless of who is at fault.
Step 6: Why Legal Help is Important
Insurance companies often dispute UM/UIM claims or try to limit payouts. Having an attorney makes navigating this situation easier. Your attorney will know how to display proper evidence, stick to deadlines and handle negotiations with your insurance company. Your attorney can also identify additional liable parties (e.g., vehicle owner, employer, defective vehicle claims).
Need To Make a UM Claim? Contact Us for Help
Uninsured accidents don’t have to leave you paying out of pocket. If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, taking steps to get medical help, notifying your insurance and calling a lawyer can help you to make a successful recovery.
Get help from an expert. Contact Tom Ueberschaer for guidance after an uninsured motorist accident.