What happens if an uninsured driver hits me?
If an uninsured driver hits you, you may not be able to recover damages for your injuries and property damage through the driver's insurance company. This is because uninsured drivers do not have liability insurance coverage to pay for damages they cause in a car accident. If the driver is at fault, you may need to pursue other avenues to recover damages.
One potential avenue for recovery is through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage is designed to compensate you for damages caused by a driver who is either uninsured or underinsured. It can cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage up to your policy limit. However, not all states require this coverage, so it is important to check whether you have it and understand its terms.
Another option is to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to recover damages directly from the driver's personal assets, such as their savings or home equity. However, this can be a lengthy and uncertain process, and it may be difficult to collect damages from a driver who cannot afford them.
If you are unable to recover damages through uninsured motorist coverage or a lawsuit, you may need to rely on your own health insurance to pay for medical expenses. You may also need to pay for repairs or replacement of your vehicle out of pocket.
To protect yourself in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver, it is important to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of your own automobile insurance policy. You should also consider carrying higher levels of liability insurance coverage to protect your own assets in the event that you are ever at fault in an accident. Finally, practicing safe driving habits can reduce the risk of being in an accident with an uninsured driver.