Dealing with an uninsured driver can be a complicated and stressful situation. Whether or not your insurance will cover damages and injuries caused by an uninsured driver largely depends on the type of coverage you have. This guide will explain the key insurance policies that can protect you in such situations, the process of filing a claim, and additional steps you can take to safeguard yourself against uninsured motorists.
Key Insurance Coverages for Uninsured Drivers
Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM)
Protection Against Uninsured Drivers
- Bodily Injury (UMBI): This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if you or your passengers are injured by an uninsured driver. It can also cover pain and suffering.
- Property Damage (UMPD): This coverage pays for damage to your vehicle and other property caused by an uninsured driver. However, UMPD is not available in all states.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM)
Protection Against Underinsured Drivers
- Bodily Injury (UIMBI): Similar to UMBI, this coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your medical expenses and other damages.
- Property Damage (UIMPD): This coverage pays for vehicle and property damage when the at-fault driver’s liability limits are too low to cover the total cost of repairs.
Filing a Claim for an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
Steps to Take
1. Report the Accident
Notify Authorities
- Call the Police: Always report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. This document will be crucial when filing your insurance claim.
2. Gather Information
Collect Evidence
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, even if they are uninsured, and gather contact details from any witnesses.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Initiate the Claim Process
- File a Claim: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the gathered documentation, including the police report, photos, and witness information.
4. Review Your Coverage
Understand Your Policy
- Check Your Policy: Review your insurance policy to understand the coverage limits and exclusions related to uninsured motorist coverage. This will help set your expectations for what your insurance company will cover.
Additional Considerations
Collision Coverage
An Alternative Protection
- Damage Repairs: If you don’t have uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage, your collision coverage can pay for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of fault. However, you will need to pay your deductible.
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
Supplemental Medical Coverage
- Injury Costs: MedPay covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. This can supplement your health insurance or uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) coverage.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
No-Fault Medical Coverage
- Broader Coverage: In no-fault states, PIP coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs after an accident, regardless of fault. This coverage can also apply when hit by an uninsured driver.
Enhancing Your Protection
Consider Higher Coverage Limits
Adequate Financial Protection
- Increase Limits: Ensure your uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage limits are sufficient to cover potential medical and repair costs. Higher limits offer better financial protection in severe accidents.
Regular Policy Reviews
Stay Updated
- Annual Reviews: Regularly review your insurance policy with your agent to ensure you have adequate coverage based on your current needs and risk factors.
Add Comprehensive Coverage
Broader Protection
- Comprehensive Policies: Adding comprehensive coverage can provide broader protection for your vehicle against non-collision events like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
Your insurance can cover damages and injuries caused by an uninsured driver, provided you have the appropriate coverage such as uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) insurance. Understanding these coverages, promptly filing a claim, and taking additional steps like maintaining collision and comprehensive coverage can enhance your protection against uninsured drivers. Regularly reviewing and updating your policy ensures you are adequately covered and prepared for any eventuality on the road.
