Quick Summary: Uninsured motorist coverage is an essential part of your auto insurance policy that protects you when you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages. In Louisiana, where approximately 1 in 8 drivers is uninsured, this coverage can be the difference between recovering from an accident and facing financial devastation.
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But when the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance, the situation becomes even more complicated. You might be wondering: “Who’s going to pay for my medical bills? What about my car repairs?” The good news is that if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you have protection. Our team at Sean Regan Law has helped countless clients navigate these complex claims and secure the compensation they deserve. We’ve put together this guide to help you understand what uninsured motorist coverage is, how it works, and why it’s so important.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of auto insurance that pays for your injuries and damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Think of it as your safety net when someone else’s lack of responsibility puts you at risk.
There are two main types of uninsured motorist coverage:
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): This covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other injury-related costs when an uninsured driver causes an accident.
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): This covers damage to your vehicle and other property when an uninsured driver is at fault.
Many policies also include underinsured motorist coverage, which kicks in when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover all of your damages.
Why You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Louisiana
Louisiana has a serious problem with uninsured drivers. Despite state laws requiring all drivers to carry liability insurance, many people on the road don’t follow the rules. When one of these drivers causes an accident, you could be left holding the bag for thousands of dollars in medical bills and repair costs.
Here’s why uninsured motorist coverage is absolutely essential:
You Can’t Control Other Drivers
No matter how carefully you drive, you can’t control whether other drivers are following the law and carrying insurance. All it takes is one irresponsible driver running a red light to turn your life upside down.
Medical Bills Add Up Fast
Even what seems like a “minor” accident can result in significant medical expenses. Emergency room visits, X-rays, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars. Without uninsured motorist coverage, you might be forced to pay these bills out of pocket.
Your Health Insurance May Not Cover Everything
While your health insurance may cover some medical expenses, it often doesn’t cover everything related to a car accident. You may still face deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-network charges. Plus, health insurance doesn’t cover lost wages, pain and suffering, or vehicle damage.
It’s Affordable Protection
Compared to the potential costs of being hit by an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist coverage is relatively inexpensive. The peace of mind it provides is worth every penny.
How Does an Uninsured Motorist Claim Work?
If you’re injured by an uninsured driver, you’ll file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
Report the Accident
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details, including the police report, photos of the scene, and any witness information.
Prove the Other Driver Was Uninsured
Your insurance company will verify that the at-fault driver was indeed uninsured or underinsured. This is usually done through the police report and state records.
Document Your Damages
Just like with any car accident claim, you’ll need to document your injuries and damages. This includes medical records, repair estimates, proof of lost wages, and any other evidence that supports your claim.
Negotiate a Settlement
Your insurance company will review your claim and make a settlement offer. This is where things can get tricky. Remember, even though it’s your own insurance company, their goal is still to minimize what they pay out. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the settlement you receive.
Common Challenges with Uninsured Motorist Claims
While uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect you, getting a fair settlement isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies often use various tactics to reduce what they pay, including:
- Questioning the extent of your injuries
- Arguing that the other driver wasn’t really at-fault
- Offering lowball settlements that don’t cover all your damages
- Delaying the claims process in hopes that you’ll give up
This is why working with a skilled personal injury attorney is so important. An experienced lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
What to Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver
If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured motorist, here are the steps you should take:
Stay at the Scene and Call the Police
Never leave the scene of an accident. Call 911 and wait for the police to arrive. The police report will be a critical piece of evidence for your uninsured motorist claim.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, see a doctor right away. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately, and getting prompt medical care creates a documented record that’s essential for your claim.
Gather Evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, the damage to all vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company and let them know the other driver appears to be uninsured.
Call an Attorney Before Accepting Any Settlement
Before you agree to any settlement offer from your insurance company, talk to an attorney. Insurance companies often offer far less than your claim is truly worth, especially in uninsured motorist cases.
Get Help with Your Uninsured Motorist Claim in New Orleans
Being hit by an uninsured driver is frustrating and unfair, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Sean Regan Law, we have extensive experience handling uninsured motorist claims in Louisiana. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we know how to fight back. Our team will handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with your insurance company, so you can focus on your recovery.
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and explain your options. Don’t let an uninsured driver’s negligence leave you paying the price. Contact Sean Regan Law today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.