An auto accident is unsettling and disruptive enough, but when you are in a collision with an uninsured or an underinsured driver, you may have to take additional steps to recover your losses. After an auto accident in Redlands, you should take steps to protect yourself and fully document the crash and circumstances. If you discover the other driver is uninsured – or if they fail to stop at all – you’ll need to work with your own insurance company to recover damages, provided you have this form of coverage.
Work with Your Own Insurer if you Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you are covered by uninsured and underinsured drivers’ insurance, then you can work with your own insurance provider. They will process your claim and then pursue the other, uninsured party to recover damages on your behalf; you will not have to be involved in the collection process or work things out with the other party. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required but is usually inexpensive and can protect you in this increasingly common scenario.
If your own insurer is doing their job and performing properly, you may not need an attorney; some claims are processed swiftly and easily, and you’ll be able to put the accident behind you in a hurry.
What if I Don’t Have Underinsured and Uninsured Coverage?
If you have not yet been in an accident, you should elect these additional forms of coverage right away; they are not expensive and can protect you financially after an accident. If you have already had an accident and are not covered, you will likely need an attorney to help you pursue the other party for your damages.
Do I Need an Attorney After a Redlands Car Accident with an Uninsured Motorist?
You will almost certainly need a car accident attorney if you are struck or hit by an uninsured motorist. California is not a “no fault” insurance state, meaning you have the option of filing a law suit after you have been in an accident with an uninsured driver. In some cases, this may be the best way to recover your losses after a collision.
To file and win a lawsuit, you’ll need to have the details of the accident to prove your case. This means you should take photos of the accident, speak to any witnesses and contact the California Highway Patrol or local police to file a report. See a doctor for any injuries both to protect your health and to further document your case. All the details you collect will be used to support your eventual case.
Can you Collect from an Uninsured Motorist?
The tricky part of dealing with a lawsuit after a collision with an uninsured motorist is often not winning the case – it is collecting the awarded damages. In many cases, the person who was driving without insurance may not have the assets needed to pay the damages you have won; they are also facing stiff fines and the loss of their driving privileges as well, which could also impact your ability to collect.
The best thing to do after a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver is to work with your own insurer or contact a car accident attorney. Our team can help assess your case and pursue the person who caused the accident; we can also help determine what steps to take to collect the damages and fees you have been awarded.
Auto accident cases are complex, so the best way to move forward is to get in touch and talk about the specific details of your case. Contact Harsh Law for a free consultation and to learn more about your options after your accident and to ensure you are treated fairly by all parties. We’re here to help you move forward after a crash disrupts your life.