What Happens if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, the situation can become even more complicated. For drivers in Kansas City, Missouri, and surrounding areas like Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Olathe, it’s important to know what steps to take if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.
While it’s illegal for drivers in both Kansas and Missouri to operate a vehicle without insurance, it still happens. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself in case the other driver isn’t insured.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Can Help
If the other driver is uninsured, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage comes into play. This type of coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your damages.
Here’s what uninsured motorist coverage typically includes:
- Medical expenses for injuries you sustained in the accident
- Property damage to your vehicle or other personal property
- Pain and suffering due to your injuries
- Lost wages if you cannot work due to the accident
In Kansas City and Missouri, having uninsured motorist coverage is not always mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. If you don’t have this coverage, you could be left paying for your medical bills and repairs out of pocket.
What to Do if the Other Driver Is Uninsured
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, and as much detail as possible, even if they don’t have insurance. This is crucial for filing a claim with your insurance company or pursuing a lawsuit.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider right away. They can help you file a claim for uninsured motorist coverage and guide you through the process.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you’re injured, don’t delay seeking medical treatment. Even if you’re unsure of the severity of your injuries, it’s important to visit a personal injury doctor or car accident doctor in Kansas City to get evaluated. Your health is your top priority.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll need to rely on your own health insurance, auto insurance, or personal savings to cover the costs of medical treatment, repairs, and any other financial impacts of the accident. This is why having comprehensive car insurance is so important to protect yourself financially.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, and I don’t have uninsured motorist coverage?
A: Without uninsured motorist coverage, you may be personally responsible for your medical bills and vehicle repairs. You may be able to sue the at-fault driver, but if they don’t have insurance, it could be difficult to recover funds.
Q: Can my personal injury attorney help if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
A: Yes! A personal injury attorney can assist you in navigating the process, including filing a claim with your insurance provider or pursuing legal action against the uninsured driver.
Q: How can I avoid this situation?
A: The best way to avoid this situation is to make sure you have uninsured motorist coverage included in your auto insurance policy. This coverage is relatively inexpensive and provides crucial protection in case of an accident.