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I Was Hit by an Uninsured Driver, What Can I Do?

| Nov 17, 2020 | Car Accidents

Car accidents are stressful enough, but if you learn that the other driver was uninsured or underinsured, dealing with a crash can become a nightmare. Car insurance is mandatory for all registered vehicles in most states, but there are still many drivers who opt not to have coverage. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured motorist, you may still be able to recover compensation for your accident, however. Learn more about your options after an accident with an uninsured driver from our Oneonta car accident lawyers by reading on.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In the state of New York, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is legally required in addition to your regular auto insurance policy. UM/UIM was designed as a safety net to help cover your medical expenses and property damages if you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Though you should have UM/UIM coverage already since it’s required for all New York residents, we recommend reviewing your insurance policy just to be sure.

When UM coverage is needed, you make a claim with your own insurance company, rather than against the other driver’s. This coverage is meant to provide benefits if you or a passenger riding in your car are injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

If you are hit by an underinsured motorist, this coverage will kick in after their coverage has been exhausted. Many drivers don’t have adequate insurance and yet can cause significant damage and injury that will go uncovered without UIM coverage.

After an Accident

If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, you will need to contact your insurance company right away. The accident should also be reported to the police. Be sure to seek medical care for any serious injuries; if you have none, schedule a thorough medical examination to confirm that you are uninjured.

You will need to keep copies of any evidence that can support your claim, including:

  • Police reports
  • Medical records
  • Receipts and bills related to the accident
  • Photos of the crash scene, injuries, and damage to the vehicles

The more evidence you can collect and secure to back up your claim, the better. You must show that you deserve to be compensated for your injuries by proving they were not your fault, and building a strong claim is especially vital when dealing with motorists with little or no insurance.

You also should get in touch with our Ostego County car accident lawyers. The team at Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC can help you file your claim and receive the compensation you deserve. Learn how we can help with a free consultation. Call

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