All states now require automobile insurance and it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle without the minimum insurance coverage set by each state. Still the reality is that there are many uninsured drivers on the road. So some states will require that you also purchase uninsured motorist insurance.
Drivers without insurance policies are 10 times more apt to get in their automobiles to drive after indulging in alcoholic beverages. They are also 3 times more apt to be found guilty of driving negligently. Around 15% of all drivers do not have any insurance. Therefore, it is hardly amazing that 10% of motorists have found themselves in accidents with such uninsured drivers. What are the steps to take if you have this experience and how can you achieve some level of protection?
At the time of the accident you probably won’t know that the other driver is uninsured so you’ll need to respond in the normal way. Take notes of the other car’s make, model, license and registration number. Also be sure to note the other driver’s name and address (although he may not give his correct details).
Take notes about the scene of the accident, too, like where road signs were located, or what the lighting and weather were like. Write down what damage there was to the other car and whether that car had its lights on. More information is better than less. Get contact information from any witnesses present. If you have a camera handy, take pictures of the damage, and also try to get a picture of the other driver, since police might need it.
If you carry comprehensive auto insurance, then your insurance company will pay for all of the repairs to your car. However, you may lose any discounts that you receive for not filing claims and may have to cover a deductible before the insurance company pays for anything. If you are hit by an uninsured motorist, then you will have to pay the deductible unless your policy specifically waives that requirement.
Many drivers with auto insurance carry the smallest amount permitted by law, which may be insufficient to cover the damages caused by a major car wreck. If a driver at fault cannot pay for the out of pocket expenses resulting from an accident that he caused, you will need to carry Underinsured Motorist insurance. Otherwise, you could be saddled with the bills.
The most advantageous approach is to drive defensively, always wear a seatbelt, and to purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with your vehicle insurance policy.
Because of the many uninsured and underinsured drivers on the road, many states require drivers to purchase Auto Insurance for protection from Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists.
Tags: auto insurance, car, car insurance, comprehensive auto insurance, finance, insurance, underinsured motorist insurance, uninsured driver insurance coverage, uninsured motorist insurance, vehicle, vehicle insurance