Accidents Without Insurance: What To Do

Accidents are never fun, but they can be even more bothersome when you get in an accident with someone who is uninsured. While you can certainly do your part by having your own insurance and keeping it valid and up to date, the sad truth is that getting in an accident with an uninsured motorist is always a possibility. Thankfully, there are ways you can prepare beyond just simply taking an online driving course. We’ll help you understand what to do if you are involved in an accident without insurance, let you know what you need to do to plan for the worst, and help you avoid the common pitfalls that come along with accidents involving uninsured motorists.

The Best Protection

The best thing you can do to protect yourself and your property is to get uninsured or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage well before an accident occurs. Several states even require it. You can opt for injury-related coverage or property damage coverage, or both. UIM coverage typically costs only about 10 percent more than typical car insurance coverage and you’ll be glad you have it if you do happen to get in an accident with an uninsured motorist.

What to do if you are involved in an accident without insurance

-Call the police immediately. While the other person involved may not want you to do so, notifying the police as soon as possible will help you protect your health and your wallet.

-If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, take a picture of the vehicle and the driver if possible and try to note the make and model of the car along with the license plate number. This will help you if you need to go through security footage with the police later.

What not to do if you are involved in an accident without insurance

-Don’t take cash on the spot. While it may save you the hassle of talking with the insurance company, you may find that damages or injuries cost more to fix than your initial estimations tell you.

-Don’t admit fault. If you live in a state with tort insurance laws, if you are found to be the driver at fault, you will likely be liable for damages to both vehicles. Let the insurance companies determine fault, and you’ll probably be better off.

Get insured and get on with life

Again, remember that the best way to avoid sticky situations is simply to get the proper insurance coverage. Even if your state doesn’t require it, you should strongly consider getting uninsured motorist coverage so you’ll have peace of mind. You never think an accident with an uninsured motorist will happen to you, but if it does, you’ll be wishing you had prepared. Get prepared and go and live life worry free.