Surviving a car accident comes with a lot of uncertainties. There are your medical costs, property damage and a host of legal issues to handle. During those chaotic moments, it helps to know that the law is on your side and that you can pursue the liable party for damages through a personal injury lawsuit.
But there is a problem: not every motorist is sufficiently insured. It is not uncommon for a car accident victim to discover that the liable party is either uninsured or underinsured. So what do you do if you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver?
Steps to take if an uninsured driver hits you
Whether the liable party is insured or not, it is important to understand that the steps you take following the accident will greatly impact any future claims you file. Here are three important steps you need to take following a car accident that involves an uninsured driver:
Report the accident
It is important that you report the accident to the police as soon as possible. In fact, Ohio statute requires that you call the police if the car accident results in injury, fatality or property damage in excess of $1,000. The same statute also requires that you report the accident if the other driver is uninsured.
Seek treatment
The importance of seeing a doctor following the accident cannot be overstated. Seeing a doctor ensures that your injuries are diagnosed and treated in time before they can escalate into something serious. Seeking treatment also ensures that you will obtain the medical report that is crucial for pursuing your claim.
File your claim
If you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured motorist, do not wait to take action. You need to file your claim under uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist coverage. Your insurance company will investigate the facts of the accident, the extent of your injuries, your property damage and treatment costs (among other factors) before deciding how to compensate you.
If you are involved in an accident with a motorist who is not insured, do not give up home. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while pursuing your claim.
