After an accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not in control—especially if you discover the other driver is uninsured. Here are a few tips to help you handle an accident where the other driver is uninsured.
Call the Police
Most states require a minimum amount of liability coverage to be carried on auto insurance policies. Calling police after a crash involving an uninsured motorist is recommended, as the authorities add another level of protection for you. In a perfect world, all parties involved in an accident will be cooperative, but if that isn’t the case, law enforcement helps support a level of accountability to all parties.
Exchange Information
Getting the basic contact information and car insurance details of the other driver is something you should at least attempt to do. Knowing their name, address, license plate number, and driver’s license number are the kind of details that can help your insurance company in its efforts to collect from drivers who were at fault—whether they’re insured or not. This also adds a layer of protection for you, and potentially limits your own liability.
Don’t Accept Money From the Other Person
There are many reasons why another party might not have current auto insurance, but whatever it might be, don’t feel pressured to let anyone off the hook by accepting a cash bribe on the spot. Not only can this be considered fraud, but in the immediate wake of an accident, it’s not always clear how much damage has been done to the cars involved, other property at the scene, or even the people involved. It could potentially cost you 10 times as much, or more, down the road to repair any damages.
Ensure You’re Okay
Generally, the other driver’s car insurance would include bodily liability coverage, but if you have been injured, it’s possible your own insurance will cover it. Keep in mind, though, that a deductible might be required from your own pocket.
Gather Information About the Car Accident
Police can help you with this step, but the more information you can gather, the better. Take pictures of the area with your phone—the damage to the automobiles, their respective locations on the road, relevant skid marks or damage to other property—plus any information from witnesses, including their contact information. A key witness might be a tipping point when other information isn’t clear.
Talk to Your Auto Insurance Company
As with any accident with auto damage, see what you can do about getting your car fixed by talking to your car insurance company. That relationship will be doubly important this time around. You also might want to make sure that you carry uninsured motorist protection, and if you have related property damage insurance.
Importance of Auto Insurance Coverage and Finding the Best Car Insurance for You
Navigating the auto insurance claims process, particularly if you haven’t done it before and/or are injured, can be stressful, especially if the other party was not insured. Car accidents happen when you least expect them and without the proper coverage, accidents can be financially devastating. Having adequate car insurance coverage is a smart way to protect one of your most expensive assets.
Choosing the right car insurance can be a complex process and one size does not fit all. We can help you compare auto insurance coverage and rates in just minutes, finding the most affordable plan available to protect you and your vehicle.
