What to Do After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

While all states require that all drivers have some form of auto insurance coverage to remain legal on the road, the fact is that there is a segment of the population that's driving illegally. The statistics vary, but it's estimated that more than 10 percent of the drivers on the road have no car insurance. And if you're in an accident with one of them, you could be in for a frustrating time.

This is why so many states require purchasing uninsured motorist protection. This insurance coverage will protect you in the event that the person who hits you has no insurance. This coverage includes property damage, personal injury, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. Make sure you have some form of uninsured motorist coverage, so you're fully protected when you're on the road.

So, what if I'm in an accident with an uninsured driver?

First off, let's get realistic. Chances are good that someone who drives without insurance probably did so because they didn't have the money. And that means that, in all likelihood, this person won't have the cash to cover what they're liable for in your accident.

Now, if you have uninsured motorist protection, you're covered and you can file a claim. If you don't, then you're going to have to deal with legal issues. You could file civil charges against the party, and try to recoup damages and costs. But even if you win, it could take years (yes, years) to receive any of the money. And you might have legal bills. And even after all that, you might not get all that you should in the judgment.

If you happen to have uninsured motorist protection you can then work with the car insurance company and work out the claim in a normal manner. If you're not satisfied with the way the insurance company behaves in the process, you could pursue legal action against the insurance company as well. But again, this takes time and money.

No matter what, make sure you get plenty of information when you're in an accident: the name of the driver, his/her address and contact information, his/her driver's license information, and the license plate number of the car. Take pictures of the accident with your cell phone camera (they should be time-stamped by your phone, which further helps matters). Call your insurance company immediately, and document everything you can. Get witness names and phone numbers, and take statements from them if you can.