November 12, 2024

How to Handle a Car Accident with an Uninsured Driver?

Q: How to Handle a Car Accident with an Uninsured Driver?

If you have ever been involved in a car accident, you are probably familiar with the stress and frustration of dealing with insurance companies. However, what if the other driver does not have insurance? Collecting the compensation that you are owed can become a lot more complicated.

If you have ever been involved in a car accident, you are probably familiar with the stress and frustration of dealing with insurance companies. However, what if the other driver does not have insurance? Collecting the compensation that you are owed can become a lot more complicated.

If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. will help protect your rights.

What Should You Do Immediately After the Accident?

Immediately following an accident with an uninsured driver, you should do the following:

Seek Medical Attention: Your safety and well-being comes first. Following a car accident, even if you do not feel injured, seek medical attention by dialing 911; you may not notice your injuries initially, but a medical professional will. And if you decide to file a claim for compensation later, the medical record will serve as evidence for your side.
Call Authorities: Once you have received a medical examination and moved to a safe place, call the police to report the accident. An official police report will document both the incident and the other driver’s lack of insurance. You may face penalties and fines if you fail to report the accident.
Gather Information: If you are able to do so safely, take photos of the accident from multiple angles, collect contact information from any witnesses, and take down the other driver’s details, even if they do not have insurance.

What Are Your Insurance Options?

If you get into an accident and the at-fault driver does not have insurance, your insurance policy may need to cover the damages. For example, uninsured motorist coverage—though optional in Pennsylvania—can help pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Personal injury protection (also known as “no-fault insurance”) coverage, on the other hand, can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault. Under Pennsylvania law, all drivers must carry personal injury protection insurance.

If you purchased car insurance and opted into collision coverage, that coverage can help pay for repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident with an uninsured driver.

Can You Sue the Uninsured Driver?

Yes, it is possible to sue the at-fault, uninsured driver, but you should consider two factors first:

Ability to Pay: Many uninsured drivers choose to forgo insurance because they cannot afford it. So, even if you win a lawsuit against these drivers, they might not be able to pay your compensation.
Legal Process: Lawsuits are always expensive and time-consuming, especially when suing an uninsured driver. Though it may still be worth it, you will need to weigh your potential compensation against the up-front cost of the suit.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Here are some of the ways that an experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured driver:

Insurance Claims: An experienced lawyer can explain your insurance policy and help you file all the necessary paperwork.
Legal Advice and Representation: Should you decide to pursue legal action, a personal injury lawyer can provide advice and represent you throughout the process.
Maximizing Compensation: To maximize your chances of claiming the best possible compensation from your insurance company, your car accident lawyer can help you identify all possible sources of compensation.

Reclaim Peace of Mind with the Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C.

Navigating the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured driver can feel overwhelming—that is why the Delaware County car accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. are here to help. Our offices in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania serve clients throughout Philadelphia, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown. Contact us today at 267-861-7100 or submit an online form to schedule a free consultation.

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"My guy Anthony Gagliano represented me in my 1st & 2nd case involving an auto accident. Anthony and his assistant Jessica went above and beyond for me through the whole process. Set me up with physical therapy/chiropractic services. Anthony was also able to get me a larger settlement than I ever imagined IN BOTH CASES. Not to mention he was referred to me by an previous customer who had all great things to say about him."
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Elizabeth