No matter how careful you are on the road, accidents can be inevitable. Even if you have your bases covered by holding proper car insurance, you might one day be faced with a situation where the other vehicle involved does not. In a car crash with an uninsured driver, seeking legal advice on how to proceed, but the following should first be addressed:
- Call the police to report the accident, making sure to specify the lack of insurance coverage
- Seek immediate medical care for any potential injuries
- Exchange information with the uninsured driver and any witnesses
- Gather evidence by taking photographs and collecting relevant documents like medical records and the police report
- Prepare for the claims process by organizing information about the accident and your injuries in advance.
These actions will help streamline the process and strengthen your case when dealing with not only the insurance company, but also your legal case should further action be required.
How to Receive Compensation From an Uninsured Driver
There are several factors that go into seeking compensation after a car accident with an uninsured driver. If the accident was caused by the uninsured other party but you do not have uninsured driver coverage, you might have the option to pursue legal action against the other driver directly. This means that you would be holding them legally responsible for covering your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
It's typical for at-fault drivers to lack immediate funds to cover these expenses, but they may be required to fulfill these obligations gradually through wage garnishments or periodic payments.
Nevertheless, relying on compensation through direct legal action against another driver isn't always dependable, as at-fault drivers may cease payments without consideration for the consequences. Not to mention, the legal process can be complex and difficult to navigate on your own.
This is why it is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney if you are injured by an uninsured driver. If you are not financially prepared for a medical emergency, those bills can pile up and have a major impact on your life. Holding the parties responsible, accountable for their actions is vital.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
When you sign up for auto insurance in the state of Pennsylvania, uninsured motorist coverage is automatically included in the plan. This is because Pennsylvania requires insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist coverage.
Unless you explicitly declined it during policy purchase or renewal, uninsured motorist coverage should be included, offering a lump sum for medical expenses and lost wages if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. Though you have the option to deny this coverage to save a little money on your monthly premium, doing so could hurt you in the long-run.
If you do have uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance company will be responsible for paying for all damages and medical costs as long as they are less than your maximum coverage stated on your plan.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In the event of an accident where the at-fault driver's insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages, underinsured motorist coverage steps in to bridge the gap. This coverage provides financial protection for you and your passengers, ensuring that you are not left shouldering the burden of expenses beyond the limits of the other driver's policy.
By including underinsured motorist coverage in your insurance policy, you safeguard yourself against potential financial hardships in the event of a collision with an underinsured driver.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
The majority of car accident cases, even those involving uninsured drivers, typically result in settlements. However, if an equitable settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, arbitration, or mediation, it might become necessary to initiate a lawsuit and bring your case to trial.
In any case, having the right legal representation is paramount to your case’s success.
What Compensation is Available From an Uninsured Driver Personal Injury Lawsuit?
When proper compensation is considered in light of an uninsured driver personal injury lawsuit, more than just the cost to repair your vehicle and medical bills must be considered.
Economic Damages
In a car accident with an uninsured driver, economic damages can be significant. Because major injuries can have an impact on so many parts of your life, financial strain after an accident can come in many forms such as:
- Medical expenses such as ambulance fees, hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages due to missed work days or long-term disability wage limits
- Property damage, such as vehicle repairs
- Transportation expenses if their car is inoperable
- Home modifications for long-term injuries
- Funeral expenses in the case of death
Pain and Suffering
Not only causing mental and emotional distress, car crashes too often can result in a physical injury as well. From minor cuts and abrasions to broken bones or worse, the added stress of navigating an often confusing legal system might only add to ones suffering in the situation as a whole.
For example, one of the most common injuries that can occur in car crashes are neck and back injuries, which have the potential to affect someone’s daily living for the rest of their life. Some of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Strains, and Sprains
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Broken Bones
- Concussions
- Herniated Discs
- Internal Bleeding
It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries like concussions and internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time if left untreated.
The Importance Of Car Accident Lawyers in Uninsured Driver Cases
Finding your bearings after a car crash can be confusing enough. When you factor in an uninsured driver and the complications that can arise as a result, knowing that you have a lawyer who knows the in’s and out’s of personal injury law can make all the difference.
Contact Hagelgans & Veronis to Explore Your Legal Options
If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a car accident involving an uninsured driver, don't navigate the complexities alone. Our team at Hagelgans & Veronis is here to help you explore your legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.
Whether it's dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, or additional costs, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.
Contact us today, and let's work together to build a strong case and pursue the justice and support you need to move forward!
