How to Handle an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

No one plans on being in a car accident. When this situation does arise, it can be at the most inconvenient time, leaving you to deal with the other driver, insurance companies, damages and even the possibility of having to hire an attorney. Unfortunately, about 25 percent of people on the road in the U.S. are driving without insurance. Do you know what to do if you were involved in a car accident in Phoenix, AZ with someone who was not insured? If not, then you need the information here.

What to Do if the Other Driver is Uninsured 

If you are involved in a small accident, or fender bender, with an uninsured driver, they may just try to pay you for the damages on your vehicle. You should not do this. You need to first get a professional estimate for how much the repairs are going to cost since there may be structural or frame damage that isn’t visible. As a result, this could significantly increase the cost of repairs.

A smart option is to purchase uninsured motorist coverage. When you have this, your insurance will cover damages and repair costs for any accident – even if the at-fault person doesn’t have coverage. All you have to do is get the other person’s information. If you don’t have this type of coverage at the time of your accident, then you may have to hire an attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve.

While there are some states that have made it a law for drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage, this is not the case in Arizona; however, it is something you should consider doing.

What to Do if You are Uninsured? 

It is illegal for you to drive without insurance in Phoenix, Arizona. The consequences of doing this vary, but if you are involved in an accident, you may have to pay for the damages to both vehicles. If you are the cause of the accident and there are any related medical expenses, you may have to hire a lawyer for assistance.

The bottom line is that when it comes to driving, it is better to be safe and purchase the insurance now, rather than sorry that you don’t have coverage after an accident. With uninsured coverage, you don’t have to worry about how damages and medical bills will be covered after an accident.