What to Do If You're Hit by an Underinsured Driver?
As one of the oldest cities in the state, Savannah boasts a vibrant cultural scene adorned with antebellum architecture, lush public squares, and a thriving arts community. Visitors are lured in by its famed historic district, where centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss create a timeless allure. Yet, amid the romance of Savannah's historic landscape, the reality of car accidents can cast a shadow on its winding avenues.
Being in a car crash can be an extremely turbulent experience. Apart from the emotional strain it brings, there's also the task of handling insurance matters and ensuring that all damages are properly taken care of.
But what do you do when you're struck by an underinsured driver? This article offers key insights to help you navigate this situation and make informed choices while highlighting the importance of seeking help from lawyers who deal with car accidents.
Understanding Underinsurance:
Before we delve into how to manage an accident involving an underinsured driver, it's crucial to grasp the concept of underinsurance. Simply put, underinsurance occurs when the at-fault driver’s insurance policy doesn't have coverage limits to fully compensate for your losses.
When someone is deemed underinsured, their policy limit may not be enough to cover the medical expenses, vehicle repair/replacement costs, lost income, or pain and suffering a victim undergoes because of the accident. Dealing with an underinsured driver can be frustrating, but there are measures you can take to safeguard yourself.
Collecting Information at the Scene:
Following any car collision, it's essential to gather as much information as possible right there, at the scene. This holds regardless of whether the other party involved seems to have insurance coverage or not.
Remember to share all the details, like contact information (such as phone numbers and email addresses), license plate numbers, insurance company names, and policy numbers, with everyone involved in the incident.
Additionally, capture photos of the accident site and the damage caused to both vehicles, as well as any visible injuries. If you're dealing with a hit-and-run scenario or if the other party is reluctant to provide their insurance details, seek help from law enforcement right away.
Get in Touch With Your Insurance Provider:
After gathering all available information at the accident scene, make sure to contact your insurance company promptly. It's crucial to inform them and file a claim regardless of fault or whether the other party has coverage. Inform your insurer about the accident and provide them with the details collected from the scene.
They will assist you through the claims process and offer guidance on the necessary steps. Keep in mind that some insurance policies require reporting of accidents right away. Review your policy documents and speak to a representative from your insurance company to understand their requirements.
Seek Legal Advice:
Dealing with an underinsured driver can complicate an already stressful situation. Therefore, seeking advice from a lawyer specializing in personal injury law is recommended. A lawyer can offer guidance and assistance throughout the process of filing claims.
Your lawyer will assist in assessing your case to ensure that all damages, such as medical expenses, vehicle repair or replacement costs, lost income, and potential future expenses, are accurately accounted for. They will handle negotiations with both insurance companies involved—yours and the underinsured driver's—to secure compensation for your injuries and losses.
Seeking Additional Compensation:
When faced with a situation where the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient to cover all damages, it may be necessary to seek additional compensation. Depending on your situation and the local laws, there are options to consider:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: Check your auto insurance policy for UM/UIM coverage. This type of coverage can protect if you are in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance or is uninsured.
- Personal Injury Lawsuit: If the compensation received from insurance claims is insufficient or unfairly denied, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. A lawyer specializing in personal injury law can assist you through this process. It's important to keep in mind that seeking compensation might involve expertise to navigate insurance laws and regulations effectively. It's a good idea to consult with a lawyer who can offer advice tailored to your situation.
Safety Measures for Future Security:
Although it’s difficult to anticipate a car accident, there are steps you can take as a driver to protect yourself from motorists with inadequate insurance coverage:
- Review Your Insurance: Review your car insurance policy and consider adding uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for extra protection.
- Defensive Driving: Developing defensive driving skills can reduce the likelihood of getting into accidents caused by drivers, especially those with inadequate insurance.
- Additional Safeguards: Think about getting umbrella liability insurance that goes beyond auto policy limits, giving you coverage against underinsured or uninsured drivers.
By taking these precautions ahead of time, you can lessen the strain and anxiety if you ever encounter an underinsured driver down the road.
Closing Thoughts:
Dealing with an underinsured driver post-accident can be stressful and overwhelming. By taking actions like collecting information at the scene, contacting your insurance provider promptly, seeking advice from a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases, and seeking additional compensation when needed, you can safeguard your rights and improve the likelihood of receiving fair compensation for any damages suffered.
Don't forget to emphasize the importance of documentation of all accident-related information and injuries sustained. Lastly, every driver must prioritize safety measures to reduce risks while on the road. Stay prepared, stay informed, and drive responsibly!
