What to Do When an Uninsured Motorist Crashes Into You

 Posted on June 28, 2024 in Personal Injury

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough as it is, but it can be even more distressing if you discover that the other driver is uninsured. In Illinois, drivers are required to have auto insurance to cover damages in the event of an accident. However, accidents involving uninsured motorists do occur, leaving victims concerned that they will need to cover all accident-related expenses on their own. If this has happened to you, speak with an experienced Bloomingdale, IL personal injury attorney who can explain your options and help you navigate the process of recovering damages.

How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?

Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is designed to protect people who are involved in accidents with drivers who do not have insurance. This coverage typically helps pay for medical costs, any lost income, and other damages resulting from the accident. UM coverage is optional in Illinois, but many insurance policies automatically include it unless the policyholder specifically opts out.

If an uninsured driver crashes into you, there are several things you should do, including:

• Seek medical attention: This should always be your first step, regardless of the circumstances of the accident. Doing so is important for two reasons: It ensures that you are treating any issues that require medical care, and it creates a record of your injuries and any medical treatments you received for them. This might become necessary later on if you need to prove the extent of the injuries you suffered.
• Report the incident to the police: Make sure to get a copy of the police report, which will be useful for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• Gather evidence: Take pictures of the scene of the accident, including any visible damage to your vehicle or the surroundings and any visible injuries. If there are any eyewitnesses who can provide information about what they saw, get their contact information.
• Notify your insurance company: If the other driver is uninsured, notify your insurance company about the accident promptly. This will initiate the claims process and allow you to explore options under your own uninsured motorist coverage.
• Consult with a personal injury lawyer: It can be challenging to navigate an uninsured motorist claim. A reliable attorney can review your case, review your insurance policies, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County Car Accident Lawyer

If you are injured in an accident with an uninsured motorist, contact a qualified Naperville, IL personal injury attorney. Just because the other driver did not have proper insurance does not mean you should suffer financially for an accident they caused. Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices is committed to providing our clients with aggressive representation and compassionate support as they focus on recovering. We also offer Saturday and evening appointments. Call us at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation.