Car accidents are unfortunate events that cause extensive damage and injuries to all involved. Responsible drivers acquire insurance policies to avoid circumstances where they cannot cover medical expenses and other damages. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
Stone Mountain Car Accident Attorney Pendergrass knows that being involved in a car accident with a driver who does not have insurance can become a complicated situation. To ensure that you receive a fair amount of compensation, you must immediately contact the authorities.
Some drivers will try to offer you a check as compensation for fear of legal consequences. Accepting a check will not ensure you can cover all your potential expenses. If you were injured or suffered losses due to an uninsured driver’s negligence, these tips would help you understand the steps you must take following the accident.
What to Do Immediately After the Accident?
Car accidents can cause significant property damage and injuries. The first thing you must do after an accident is to contact the authorities and request an ambulance and the assistance of police officers.
Obtaining a police report will help you with your compensation claim. You should request medical assistance even if you think you are not hurt. Some symptoms might develop hours, days, or even weeks after the accident.
Furthermore, you should contact your insurance company to give early notice that you were involved in an accident. Some insurance companies give you a limited time frame to file for compensation. If you have issues with your insurance company, you should consult a lawyer to explore your options.
Apply for Your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
According to the Insurance Information Institute, 78% of drivers purchase additional coverage to liability insurance, and 74% require collision coverage. Despite this, some negligent drivers choose to drive uninsured. When dealing with irresponsible drivers, you must ensure that you still have the option to recover your losses.
If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance company will cover the costs of your medical costs and vehicle repairs. The insurance company will conduct its own investigation and will request proof of your injuries, treatments, and other damages before providing compensation. Suppose you have issues with your insurance company not being cooperative. In that case, you should hire a personal injury attorney to negotiate with them.
File a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Party
If you do not have an uninsured/underinsured policy with your insurance company, filing a lawsuit against the guilty party is a good option. In such cases, hiring a qualified attorney to represent your interest in court is good practice. Personal injury lawsuits are lengthy processes that take time and money to resolve. Having a lawyer to guide you through this challenging time will help you receive a fair amount of compensation.
If you sustained extensive injuries that require a lengthy recovery period, you might not be able to attend court dates or handle the amount of paperwork. A personal injury lawyer will professionally handle your case while you rest and heal. Your lawsuit might require compensation for medical bills, property damages, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It would be best if you had a solid case to obtain total compensation, and your attorney will fight for your rights.
