How to Handle an Accident with an Uninsured Motorist

After an accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not in control—especially if you discover the other driver is uninsured. If this occurs, it’s crucial to know how to navigate the aftermath of the accident. From seeking compensation to taking the necessary legal steps, handling an accident with an uninsured motorist requires a clear understanding of your rights and the available resources. In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of six steps you can take to ensure you feel informed and empowered if you’re in a collision with an uninsured driver.

Six Steps to Take If You’re In an Accident with an Uninsured Motorist

While it can be jarring, having the right information can help you understand how to handle a collision with an uninsured motorist. Here are six steps you can take to protect yourself and your assets:

1. Ensure You’re Okay

Generally, the other driver's car insurance would include bodily liability coverage, but if you have been injured, it's possible your own insurance will cover it. Prioritize safety after the accident, moving to a secure location if possible and assessing injuries. If anyone requires medical attention, promptly contact emergency services.

2. Call the Police

Most states require a minimum amount of liability coverage to be carried on auto insurance policies. Calling the police after a crash involving an uninsured motorist is recommended, as the authorities add another level of protection for you. A police report can serve as an official record of the incident, which may be essential when dealing with an uninsured motorist. Contacting law enforcement is always crucial, but can be especially helpful if the other driver isn’t cooperative after the collision.

3. Exchange Information 

Despite the other driver's insurance status, exchange essential information, including their name, contact details, and license plate number. This data is vital for future correspondence and can help your insurance company in its efforts to collect from drivers who were at fault—whether they’re insured or not. This also adds a layer of protection for you and potentially limits your own liability.

4. Don’t Accept Money From the Other Person

There are many reasons why another party might not have current auto insurance, but whatever it might be, it’s important not to accept any cash or other form of payment from the other driver. Not only can this be considered fraud, but in the immediate wake of an accident, it's not always clear how much damage has been done to the cars involved or other property at the scene. This means it may cost significantly more money than the driver offers you to repair your vehicle or other property, and it’s best to let your insurance company handle these details.

5. Gather Information About the Car Accident

While police may gather their own images, it’s a good idea to take photos of the area, especially any damage to your vehicle. Take pictures of the area with your phone—the damage to the automobiles, their respective locations on the road, relevant skid marks, or damage to other property—plus any information from witnesses, including their contact information. This evidence can significantly support insurance claims.

6. Talk to Your Auto Insurance Company

As with any accident with auto damage, see what you can do about getting your car fixed by talking to your car insurance company. That relationship will be doubly important this time around. You also might want to make sure that you carry uninsured motorist protection and that you have related property damage insurance.

Importance of Auto Insurance Coverage and Finding the Right Car Insurance for You

Navigating the auto insurance claims process can be stressful, especially if you haven't done it before, are injured, or if the other party was not insured. Car accidents happen when you least expect them, and without the proper coverage, accidents can be financially devastating. Having adequate car insurance coverage is a smart way to protect one of your most expensive assets. When it comes to choosing the right car insurance can be a complex process; there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. At SelectQuote, our licensed insurance agents can help you compare auto insurance coverage and rates in just minutes, finding the most affordable plan available to protect you and your vehicle.