I Was Hit by an Uninsured Driver. What Do I Do?
Pennsylvania requires all vehicle owners in the state to maintain liability insurance on their cars to cover property damage or injuries they might cause in a crash. If you get hurt in a car accident, you have a claim for your damages against the at-fault driver, and their insurance is meant to cover your losses. However, despite the law, about six percent of registered vehicle owners in Pennsylvania fail to maintain insurance as required by law. That’s 240,000 cars on the road operated without insurance. What happens if you get hit by an uninsured driver? Do you still have a claim? Luckily, you do have options, and an experienced auto accident attorney can help. Read on to learn what to do if you get into a wreck caused by an uninsured driver in Philadelphia, and contact Benedum Law for help from an experienced and successful Chestnut Hill car accident lawyer.
Auto Liability Insurance Requirements in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum amount of auto liability insurance. This includes:
- Bodily Injury Liability: This covers injuries to others caused by the policyholder. Minimum required amounts are $15,000 for injuries per person, up to $30,000 per accident.
- Property Damage Liability: This covers damages to someone else’s property by the policyholder. The minimum coverage required is $5,000.
Despite these requirements, some drivers on Pennsylvania roads remain uninsured, posing a risk to others. An uninsured driver can still be held personally liable for the damages they caused if they were at fault, but it can be challenging to collect any judgment against them. Uninsured drivers may lack the financial resources to pay for your damages, making it difficult to receive compensation through this method.
If you have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company. This is often a more viable option, as it bypasses the need to depend on the uninsured driver’s ability to pay.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: An Optional Safety Net
While not mandatory in Pennsylvania, Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is a crucial component of auto insurance that protects you if you’re hit by an uninsured driver. This coverage steps in to cover your damages, effectively taking the place of the at-fault driver’s non-existent insurance. Opting for UM coverage provides an added layer of security, especially in accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers. Note that UM covers bodily injury only and doesn’t pay for property damage. However, you can opt to stack your UM coverage, which allows you to multiply the amount of your UM coverage by the number of vehicles on your policy or receive UM coverage from more than one policy under which you are insured.
Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
- Report the Accident: Regardless of the insurance status of the other party, report the accident to the police. A police report is vital for any subsequent legal action.
- Gather Evidence: Document the scene, take photos, and collect contact information from witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and document any injuries, as these records are crucial for your claim.
- Notify Your Insurer: Inform your insurance company about the accident, especially if you have UM coverage.
Navigating the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured driver can be complex. Our Philadelphia personal injury law firm is dedicated to guiding clients through this challenging time. We understand the intricacies of Pennsylvania’s auto insurance laws and are skilled in exploring all avenues for financial recovery. We can assist you in understanding your UM policy and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process. We work diligently to maximize your recovery while navigating the nuances of Pennsylvania’s insurance laws.
Benedum Law: Your Ally in Seeking Justice After a Crash With an Uninsured Driver in Philadelphia
If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver in Philadelphia, contact Benedum Law in Chestnut Hill at 215-529-7848 for a free consultation to explore your options for financial recovery and get the help you need.
