As an experienced personal injury attorney, I’ve seen the challenges that injured individuals face when they’re involved in an accident with a driver who is either uninsured (the driver does not have any car insurance) or underinsured (the driver has car insurance with very low policy limits that may not even cover the cost of a single surgery).
Unfortunately, there are many drivers that fit into one of the above categories in the roads all across this country, including Tennessee and Florida. It can be devastating for those involved who are not at fault and are severely injured. That is why having Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage on your own automobile insurance policy is critical.
What is this type of coverage?
Well, if you:
- Get into an automobile accident,
- Are not at fault, and
- The at-fault driver does not have car insurance to cover all of your damages…
Then, you might have nowhere to get money from to cover your expenses, unless you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage under your own car insurance policy.
There are two main issues you may encounter if you do not have this type of coverage on your automobile policy, which are:
- Financial hardship: An injury can be financially devastating, especially if it prevents you from working. If the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, it can be impractical and/or next to impossible to receive the full compensation you need to cover your own medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
- Emotional distress: Being involved in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver can be emotionally traumatizing. Same is especially true if you are seriously injured or have lost a loved one. It is important to protect yourself so that you can receive the proper financial recovery you need to better assist you with coping with the physical and emotional effects of the accident.
Note that Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage cannot be added onto your auto insurance policy after the fact to cover an accident once the accident has already occurred. Simply put, this type of coverage must be in effect on the date the accident occurs. Moreover, even if you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage on your own auto policy, your insurance company may still try to deny your claim or offer you a low-ball settlement if you are not represented by an attorney. This is why it is critical to have an experienced personal injury attorney representing you to fight and protect your rights.
If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to timely seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney. With the right legal representation, you can receive the compensation you deserve and move forward with your life.
At DevonLaw, we make sure you know and understand your rights and what you are entitled to.
**If you would like to discuss your case, contact us online or call us anytime at (615) 623-0232 for a free consultation.