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Finding out that the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance adds to the already stressful event of a car crash in Long Island. Who is going to pay for your medical bills, car repairs, and lost income? At The Saul Law Firm, LLP, our car accident lawyers can give you the answers you need.
Through your own policy or a possible lawsuit, you have ways to seek financial support. Our personal injury lawyers share the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation so you can protect your rights, as well as your finances.
Immediate Steps After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
What you do in the moments after the accident can shape the outcome of your claim. First and foremost, if you’re seriously injured, go to the hospital. Otherwise, protect yourself with the following steps:
- Call the police: This way, a police report is created. This documents the crash and confirms the other driver has no insurance.
- Gather evidence: Take as many photos as possible—of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries. Get contact info from the driver and witnesses.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you didn’t go to the hospital right away, some injuries take time to appear. See a doctor and keep records of all treatments.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident and ask about filing an uninsured motorist claim.
- Call a lawyer: It’s important to get a lawyer involved. They can help handle insurance disputes and explore every avenue for recovering compensation.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage for Uninsured Motorists
Recovering compensation after an accident with an uninsured driver starts with your own insurance policy.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
In New York, every car insurance policy must include this protection. With minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, this helps with medical bills, lost wages, and other damage.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Benefits
New York’s no-fault system includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP), covering up to $50,000 for expenses, no matter who caused the crash.
Collision Coverage for Vehicle Repairs
Collision coverage can pay for car repairs after an uninsured crash, though you may owe a deductible. Legal action could help recover that cost.
Legal Options After an Uninsured Motorist Accident
No matter how great your insurance coverage is, sometimes it’s just not enough. Don’t worry—you have options.
Filing a Lawsuit Against the Uninsured Driver
No one likes a lawsuit, but when dealing with an uninsured driver, it’s often a choice you have to make. A lawsuit may help recover damages, but uninsured drivers often lack the funds to pay, making collection challenging.
Third-Party Liability Claims
Sometimes, another factor contributes to the crash. This could involve a vehicle defect, dangerous road condition, or maintenance issue. In those cases, a personal injury lawyer can determine if a third party shares liability and whether you can pursue additional compensation from them.
Working with a Long Island Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorney
Contacting a lawyer can seem intimidating after a car accident, but when you want to make sure you get the compensation you deserve—it’s a necessity, especially after getting into an accident with an uninsured driver.
Insurance companies will try to limit what they pay you, and a car accident attorney will push back. They’ll challenge low offers, deal with the adjusters, and fight for a compensation amount that feels fair to you.
Whether your accident happened on the LIE, Sunrise Highway, or a busy Nassau or Suffolk road, The Saul Law Firm, LLP, will gather evidence and explore every option—including legal action—to help you move forward.
The Saul Law Firm, LLP, Is Ready to Help
Getting hit by a driver without insurance is the last thing you need, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get compensation. The Saul Law Firm, LLP, is here to help. We can talk about your options and work to find a way forward. Contact us today to see how we may support your claim.