Insure Yourself Against Uninsured Motorists on Our Highways
Dan Carter
Every state requires drivers to carry some kind of auto insurance, with the minimum required amount determined by each individual state. However, there are many drivers out there who carry no insurance at all. Many states recognize this and require drivers to buy Uninsured Motorist Coverage (http://www.AutoInsuranceShoppe.com/Types_of_Auto_Insurance_Coverage.html) as well.
Uninsured drivers are ten times more likely to drink, then drive, and three times more likely to get a conviction for their negligent driving. Roughly 15% of drivers carry no insurance. So it is no surprise that one out of every ten drivers has been in an accident with a driver who is uninsured. So what must you do if this should happen to you, and how can you protect yourself in this event?
When the accident happens, you will not know if that other driver has insurance or not, so you must react normally. Take notes on the other car's model, make, registration number, and license. Also, note the driver's name and address- even though he might not give you all the right details.
Be sure to note the other car's damage and the accident's setting. Record road signs and markings, the amount of lighting in the scene, the weather, and if the other car had its lights on. The more detail you account for on the record, the better your case. If there was an independent witness, get their full contact information, this is a very lucky occurrence. Having a camera with you is one of the best things you can do. Take many pictures, aiming for one that clearly has the other driver in the frame. The police will find that one very helpful!
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.
Even drivers who have auto insurance sometimes only carry the minimum limits, which may not be enough to cover all of the damages in an accident for which they are responsible. If the at-fault driver cannot pay the out of pocket expenses for the damages that insurance doesn't cover, you will be left with the bill yourself unless you have Underinsured Motorist insurance.
When you buy your auto insurance policy, the best thing you can do is purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. When you are driving, be alert, drive defensively, and always wear your seatbelt.
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