Getting hit by a driver who has no insurance can make you feel like you have sustained both physical and financial injuries. You did nothing wrong, but you have sustained trauma and the person responsible cannot cover your medical bills or lost wages. Do not despair yet. You still have options, including your own uninsured motorist coverage if applicable, but the steps you take next are essential to protecting them.
At The Law Office of Scott Righthand, P.C., our injury attorneys have spent more than 30 years helping people recover fair compensation after serious collisions. We can walk you through what to do in this scenario, step by step.
A police report serves as an official record of what happened. This record can matter even more when the other driver has no insurance, because you may need to prove fault later through your own coverage or a lawsuit.
At the scene, do the following if you are able to:
Strong evidence, especially when collected at the scene, can often make the difference between a denied claim and a fair recovery in a difficult case.
Uninsured motorist coverage is a key component in cases where one driver is uninsured. It is a part of your own auto policy that steps in to pay for your injuries when the driver at fault does not have insurance to cover them. In California, insurers must offer this coverage, though you may have declined it when you signed up.
Notify your insurer promptly after the crash. Ask questions like:
Do not assume you lack coverage. Many drivers carry it without realizing it, and it can be a vital source of compensation.
See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as concussions and soft tissue damage, do not show symptoms right away. Prompt care protects your health and helps link your injuries directly to the crash.
Keeping detailed records helps strengthen your claim and support your testimony if you need to prove your case to your insurance company or a courtroom.
A crash with an uninsured driver is often even more stressful than normal, but you do not have to face it alone. By documenting the scene, tapping into your uninsured motorist coverage and seeking prompt medical care, you can take steps to protect both your health and your right to fair compensation.
The team at The Law Office of Scott Righthand, P.C. is ready to review your case and explain your options. Contact us today for a no-obligation case evaluation and support to move forward.