A car accident can be frightening, and it becomes even more stressful when the other driver is uninsured. Even though drivers are supposed to carry auto insurance, some people still choose to drive without it. This can make it harder for you to get help paying for medical bills, lost income, and car repairs. Still, there are important steps you can take to protect yourself and your finances after the crash.
Important Steps To Take Right After the Accident
Your safety is the first thing to think about. Check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If someone is hurt, call 911 right away so emergency workers can help. Even if you feel fine, it’s still important to get checked by a doctor. Many injuries are not obvious right away, and early care can protect both your health and your claim. You can read more about this in our FAQ on why getting medical care after an accident is crucial.
Even if no one seems hurt, you should still call the police. A police report is very important when the other driver is uninsured. It helps show what happened, who may be at fault, and gives your insurance company the facts they need.
Try to gather as much information as you can. Write down the driver’s name and phone number if they are willing to share them. Take pictures of both cars and the damage. Take photos of the road, the accident scene, and anything else that seems important. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. The more information you collect, the easier it will be to support your claim later.
Then, contact your insurance company as soon as you can. Explain what happened and share the photos and information you gathered. Most states use an “at-fault” system. This means the insurance company will look at the details to decide who caused the accident.
How Your Insurance Can Help
Even if the other driver does not have insurance, your own insurance coverage may still help you. Many drivers carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage. These types of insurance can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes car repairs when the at-fault driver is uninsured. If you’re not familiar with how underinsurance works or why it matters, you can learn more in our guide on what underinsurance is and why it is so important.
If you have collision coverage, it can help repair your car no matter who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) can help pay for medical care and, in some cases, lost income, even if the other driver was at fault. Without these optional coverages, it may be harder to recover your costs, which is why understanding your policy ahead of time is so important.
Can You Take Legal Action?
You may choose to sue the uninsured driver. A lawsuit can help you recover the cost of medical treatment, repairs, and other losses. But this only works if the driver has money or assets to pay a judgment. Many uninsured drivers cannot afford insurance and may not be able to pay for damages. Speaking with a car accident lawyer can help you decide if legal action is a good idea in your situation.
If the Driver Leaves the Scene
A hit-and-run accident is very similar to an accident with an uninsured driver. In many cases, your uninsured motorist coverage can help you pay for your losses. Make sure to file a police report right away and call your insurance company.
Final Thoughts
An accident with an uninsured driver can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect you. Acting quickly and understanding your insurance options are key to recovering from the crash. If you need guidance or want help with your claim, contact us today. The Skinner Brothers team is here to answer your questions, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.