Most states require drivers to have a minimum amount of liability insurance. However, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that one in eight drivers are uninsured. Although you are a responsible driver who follows the rules of the road, you are still vulnerable to uninsured drivers. So, what should you do if you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver?
- Call the police – If you get in an accident, it is vital to call the police, regardless of whether the other driver has insurance. However, if the other driver in your accident is uninsured, having a police report will help you to protect yourself and ensure your insurance claim is processed and paid.
- Don’t accept money – In New York and New Jersey there are hefty fines for driving without insurance coverage, so the uninsured driver may offer you money in the hopes of avoiding being fined. Although it may be tempting to accept money from an uninsured driver, it is best to hold off. Immediately after your accident, you may not know the extent of your injuries or the damage to your vehicle.
- Exchange information – Typically, you would want the insurance information from the other driver involved in your accident. However, in this case, you should still get the name, license plate number, phone number, and address of the uninsured driver should you or your insurance company need to follow up with them.
- Gather details – Write down any pertinent information related to the accident. Information like the make and model of the other vehicle, license plate number, location of the accident, and the name of the police officer who responded to the accident will be helpful when you are working with your insurance company later.
- Take pictures – Taking pictures of the damage to your car and the other vehicles, as well as traffic signs, and the location of the accident will be useful when filing a claim.
Contact an experienced New York and New Jersey trial attorney
At Kreizer Law, we specialize in helping our clients obtain fair compensation for personal injury and property damage. If you have been in a car accident contact us online or call our offices at 1‑(800)-4-JUSTICE® –1-(800)-458-7842 for a free consultation.
