Car accidents are stressful enough, but the situation becomes even more complicated when the at-fault driver is uninsured. Unfortunately, uninsured motorist accidents in New York and Long Island are more common than many people realize. When you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance, understanding your legal options is crucial. That’s where The Saul Law Firm can assist you.
Well-versed in the applicable rules governing UIM coverage, we can help you navigate the claims process. Trust us to protect your rights and fight for meaningful compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to get started with a skilled uninsured motorist accident attorney.
What Is an Uninsured Motorist Accident?
An uninsured motorist accident occurs when you’re involved in a collision with a driver who does not have auto insurance or whose insurance has expired and was never renewed. It also applies to hit-and-run accidents. In New York, all drivers must carry minimum liability insurance to cover damages in the event of an accident. However, not all drivers comply with this law. If the at-fault driver is uninsured, it may be difficult to recover compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages. This is where uninsured motorist coverage becomes essential.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in New York
New York law requires every auto insurance policy to include coverage for uninsured motorists. This means that if you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, your insurance policy can cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages up to the limits of your UM coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage in New York typically includes:
- Bodily injury coverage–Compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by an uninsured driver.
- Underinsured motorist coverage–If the at-fault driver has insurance but their policy limits are insufficient to cover your damages, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can fill the gap.
What to Do After an Uninsured Motorist Accident
Being involved in an accident with an uninsured driver can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately after the accident can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what to do:
- Seek medical attention–Your health should be your top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, getting checked out by a medical professional is essential, as some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later.
- Call the police–Always report the accident to the police. A police report will provide an official record of the incident, which can be vital in proving your uninsured motorist claim.
- Document the scene–If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including damage to all vehicles and your injuries, and get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company–Let your insurance company know that you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.
The insurance claims process can be complex, especially when an uninsured driver is involved. Our team can help you understand your options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Challenges of Uninsured Motorist Claims
Uninsured motorist claims may seem straightforward, but they can become complicated. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even when dealing with their policyholders. You may face challenges such as:
- Proving fault: You’ll need to demonstrate that the other driver was at fault for the accident, which can require evidence such as the police report, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.
- Filing deadlines: New York has strict deadlines for filing uninsured motorist claims. Failing to file your claim in time can result in losing your right to compensation or to have your medical bills paid.
- Coverage disputes: Insurance companies may dispute the extent of your injuries or the amount of compensation you’re entitled to, making it difficult to recover the full amount of your claim.
Suppose you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident. Your UIM coverage also kicks in here; however, documenting these claims can be particularly challenging. No matter the circumstances, we will work tirelessly to help you recover compensation for all your medical and financial needs.
Available Damages
In a successful uninsured motorist claim, you may recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses–This includes hospital bills, physical therapy, medications, and other healthcare costs related to your injuries.
- Lost wages–If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income, both now and in the future.
- Pain and suffering–Uninsured motorist claims can also include compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
The Saul Law Firm is here to guide you through the challenges of filing a UIM claim and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. We’ll negotiate with your insurance company, build a strong case, and protect your rights. When you become our client, you will have the peace of knowing our dedicated injury attorneys are on your side.
Talk To Our Experienced Garden City UIM Accident Attorney
Dealing with an uninsured motorist accident can be challenging. Don’t go it alone. Let The Saul Law Firm help you obtain the compensation you need and deserve—contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
The Saul Law Firm, LLP helps clients throughout Garden City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, Queens, Garden City, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Westchester County.