Being hit by an uninsured driver can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are out of options. Injured drivers can still pursue compensation through their own insurance policy in the form of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Understanding how insurance companies approach UM claims can make a significant difference in your recovery.
In this blog, we break down how uninsured motorist coverage works, what to expect during the claims process, and how a lawyer can help.
How Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage Works
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is designed to protect you if you are injured by a driver without liability insurance. Instead of pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver directly, this process allows you to file a claim through your own policy.
In Arizona, insurance companies are required to offer UM and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage when you purchase an auto policy, but this is optional. Drivers are only allowed to decline in writing. Because of this, many people have UM coverage without fully realizing it.
If you don’t remember signing a waiver when your policy was established, there is a strong chance you already have UM protection built into your current policy. A lawyer can review your specific documents to help you understand what may be covered in the event of a crash.
How Insurance Companies Handle Uninsured Motorist Claims
Many people understandably assume that paying your premiums on time means your insurer will quickly and fairly handle your UM claim. Sadly, this isn’t the reality. In an uninsured motorist case, your insurance company essentially steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver. This means your own insurer becomes the opposing party.
Internal adjusters may actively look for ways to limit your payout by:
- Scrutinizing medical records to argue that your injuries are pre-existing.
- Questioning the severity of your injuries if you delay prompt treatment.
- Pinning undue fault on you to reduce their financial liability.
Having an attorney who understands how insurance adjusters operate is critical to pushing back against common insurer tactics.
What If You Don’t Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
If you don’t have UM coverage, it may be possible to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, uninsured drivers often lack the financial resources to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, which can make it difficult to collect compensation.
A thorough investigation by an attorney may reveal other liable parties with deeper pockets, such as a third party responsible for a dangerous road condition or an employer if the driver was working at the time.
Car accidents involving uninsured drivers without UM coverage often present practical challenges that go beyond proving fault. Our lawyer can review the circumstances of your case and identify potential opportunities for recovery.
Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
Your actions after a crash can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover damages. Knowing what to do after a UM accident can help preserve key details and support your case moving forward. Some important steps to take include:
- Report the accident to the local authorities to prioritize the safety of involved parties and establish an official police report.
- Seek medical attention to have your injuries evaluated and documented, even if they seem minor.
- Notify your insurance company promptly to help prevent future delays during the legal process.
- Avoid giving detailed statements too early before all facts and injuries are fully understood.
- Preserve evidence by keeping records, witness contact information, and additional documentation that may support your case.
- Contact our lawyer to discuss your legal options and set up a complimentary case evaluation.
Why You Need a Glendale Attorney Who Handles Your Case Personally
Uninsured motorist claims can quickly become complex. Having consistent, direct legal guidance can make the process more manageable and increase your chance of obtaining a favorable outcome. Our lawyer works directly with clients to position your case for success from the outset.
As an experienced trial attorney with a background in insurance defense, Attorney David J. Klink is uniquely equipped to advocate for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. Whether the crash occurred on Loop 101 or in a residential area, we can work diligently to build a case that reflects the full scope of your losses.
Don’t pay the price for someone else’s carelessness. Call (602) 483-6059 to schedule a free consultation with our UM accident attorney.