When you’re in a car accident, your first thoughts are usually about your injuries and the damage to your vehicle. After checking to make sure that everyone involved in the accident is okay, it is advised to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver so the accident claim can be covered by the at-fault driver’s car insurance policy.
It is very frustrating to find out that the driver who caused the accident doesn’t have insurance to pay for your losses. This unfortunate situation is more common than many people realize, despite the fact that car insurance is a legal requirement in most states. The bottom line is that when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, it could leave the injured party financially vulnerable. That’s where uninsured motorist coverage is beneficial, providing important financial protection if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by a driver who does not carry car insurance, a car accident lawyer can help you recover a fair settlement for your losses and injuries. Learn more about uninsured motorist claims.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an insurance policy designed to protect you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have liability insurance. Essentially, it steps in to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs when the at-fault party lacks the required insurance coverage. In some states, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory, while in others, such as Washington State, it’s optional, but it should never be overlooked.
This coverage not only offers peace of mind but also acts as a financial safety net. In addition to uninsured drivers, this coverage can also protect you in the event of a hit-and-run, where the responsible party flees the scene and is never identified.
Why is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Important?
According to recent studies, about one in eight drivers on the road is uninsured. According to Bankrate, 21.7% of drivers in Washington state are uninsured. This makes Washington fifth among the top five states with the highest percentage of uninsured drivers.
This means that in the event of an accident in Washington State, there’s a significant chance that the at-fault driver won’t have the means to compensate you for your losses. Without uninsured motorist coverage, you would likely have to cover the costs yourself or pursue legal action, which could be time-consuming, stressful, and costly. In cases where the driver has no assets, it can be challenging to recover any damages.
Underinsured drivers:
It’s also important to understand that even if the other driver does have insurance, their policy limits might be too low to cover your damages, particularly in serious accidents. The minimum insurance policy required in Washington state is $25,000 for bodily injury per claim and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident. Uninsured motorist coverage will often include underinsured motorist protection, providing additional coverage when the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short of covering your expenses.
Protect Yourself Against the Unexpected
Uninsured motorist coverage is an affordable way to protect yourself from an unpredictable and potentially devastating financial burden. By having uninsured motorist coverage, you ensure that you, your passengers, and your financial well-being are protected, regardless of whether the other driver is insured.
In a world where many drivers don’t follow the law or have enough insurance, this type of coverage can be the difference between financial stability and hardship after an accident.
Why is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Important If You Have Medical?
Even if you have medical insurance, uninsured motorist coverage is still important because it covers more than just medical bills. It can help with expenses like lost wages, pain and suffering, and ongoing care that health insurance may not fully cover. It also protects against out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays, covers passengers who might not have medical insurance, and provides financial protection in hit-and-run situations where medical insurance won’t help with vehicle damage or non-medical expenses. Having both medical insurance and uninsured motorist coverage ensures you’re fully protected after an accident.
Seek the Help of a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
