Uninsured Drivers

Everybody knows they are required by law to carry automobile insurance to drive, but not many people have it. In Florida, nearly 20% of drivers are uninsured. This means that if you are involved in a car accident, the odds are one in five, that the driver who hit you was not insured. Who pays for your damages when you are hit by an uninsured driver?

Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance policy will provide no-fault benefits when you are in an accident. But PIP only covers a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages. Sometimes the damages are far greater than what is covered by PIP. In these cases, the other driver's Bodily Injury Liability (BI) may be used to cover the difference. What if the other driver has no BI Coverage?

Call the Walker Law Group or visit us online for assistance with an experienced uninsured motorist attorney.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

If you took the smart step of purchasing comprehensive auto insurance, you might already have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This protection is essential if you're involved in an accident with a driver who either lacks insurance entirely or has insufficient coverage to cover your damages. UM coverage also applies if you're the victim of a hit-and-run accident and the responsible driver is unidentifiable. In such cases, your insurance acts as if the driver were insured, ensuring that you are not left to cover the costs alone.

What does UM coverage pay for?

• Current and future medical expenses related to treatment for injuries caused by the accident.
• Lost wages from time missed at work while recovering from the accident.
• Pain and suffering that arises as a result of the physical and emotional toll of the injury.
• Disability compensation if your injuries prevent you from performing normal activities or working.
• Loss of enjoyment of life if the accident causes permanent impairment that reduces your quality of life.

Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage

Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is an extension of UM protection, but it applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to fully cover your damages. For example, if the other driver only carries the minimum required liability coverage—which often isn't enough in serious accidents—UIM coverage fills in the gap, ensuring that you aren't left with the financial burden.

UIM coverage is essential, as many drivers only carry the bare minimum insurance, which can leave you with large out-of-pocket expenses. Having UIM coverage in place helps protect you from the financial fallout of dealing with an underinsured driver, covering expenses like medical treatment, car repairs, and future wages lost due to long-term recovery.

Differences Between Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance, while underinsured motorist coverage applies when the driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover the full cost of your damages. In both cases, your own insurance steps in to protect you, but the specific coverage depends on whether the other driver has insufficient coverage or no coverage whatsoever.

Checking Your Auto Liability Insurance Policy for UM/UIM Coverage

Your insurance provider is required to offer UM and UIM coverage when you sign up for liability insurance. However, the choice to accept or decline this coverage is yours. While declining it may save a few dollars on your premiums, it could leave you exposed to significant financial risks. With nearly one in four drivers on the road uninsured or underinsured, it's often worth the small added expense for the protection it offers.

If you're unsure whether you have UM/UIM coverage, here are the steps to check your auto liability insurance policy:

1. Review Your Insurance Declarations Page: This page summarizes the coverage provided by your policy. Look for sections labeled “Uninsured Motorist” and “Underinsured Motorist.” If these are listed, the coverage is likely included in your policy.
2. Check the Coverage Limits: If UM/UIM coverage is listed, verify the limits of your coverage. This is typically expressed as two separate numbers, such as 25/50, meaning $25,000 for individual injuries and $50,000 for total injuries per accident. Ensure that these limits match or exceed your bodily injury liability limits (BIL).
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider: If you can’t find clear information or if your declarations page is unclear, call your insurance provider directly. They can confirm whether you have UM/UIM coverage, explain the limits, and help you add or adjust your coverage if necessary.
4. Consider Increasing Your Coverage: If you already have UM/UIM coverage, consider raising your limits to match your bodily injury liability (BIL) coverage. This provides comprehensive protection and ensures you're not left with out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident with an underinsured driver.

Experienced Car Accident Attorneys for Accidents Caused by Uninsured Motorists

Dealing with an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can be complicated, especially when it comes to insurance claims. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring that all potential sources of compensation are explored. At The Walker Law Group, we specialize in handling cases involving uninsured and underinsured motorists.

When dealing with insurance companies, it’s important to remember that your interests and theirs are not aligned. While you aim to secure full compensation for your injuries and damages, the insurance company’s goal is often to minimize their payout. Having skilled legal representation ensures that you are not taken advantage of and that you receive the full amount you're entitled to. Our team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call The Walker Law Group for assistance with an experienced uninsured motorist attorney.