Motor vehicle accidents can be frightening for those involved, and if you’re hit by an uninsured driver, things only get more complicated. So, what are you supposed to do if you have an unexpected run-in with someone who doesn’t have insurance? Don’t panic; just proceed with the following steps:
Contact Police
The police should be your first call, as with any accident. This is imperative when the crash involves an uninsured driver. Getting an accident report and written police record of the event will help you get compensation for your expenses and aid you in the claims process. Obtain
Relevant Information
Once the police are on the scene, they’ll write down the other driver’s information, but you should do it too. You should record the following information:
- Name/badge number of any police that respond
- Accident location
- Eyewitness contact information
- Make and model of every vehicle involved
- Insurance information
- Driver’s license state and number
- License plate numbers
- Driver and passenger’s names
Document All Info
When you file a claim with your auto insurance company for a damaged vehicle, it’s important to gather evidence to support your claim to be sure you receive fair compensation. This is especially true if you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver. Take photos of the accident with your smartphone or tablet and use them to document the damage to every involved vehicle. You should also write down notes to help you remember what took place. Include these key points:
- Who the driver was
- What the cause of the accident was
- How fast you were going
- Road conditions at the time of the accident
- If the other driver was distracted, such as talking or texting on their phone
Know Your Local Laws
California law states that all drivers must carry insurance, but studies have reported that as much as 25 percent of California drivers are uninsured and even more don’t have enough insurance. In order to get the money you need to cover medical expenses and other damages, you’ll need to understand local laws regarding uninsured drivers. That’s why it’s important to speak to an attorney directly after your accident. Jorgensen Law can help you wade through the legal complexities of traffic and insurance laws.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in injury, a good personal injury lawyer can make all the difference. Studies show that accident victims who employ an attorney may receive up to three times more compensation than those who don’t. The expert legal team at Jorgensen Law is here to help you make sense of the laws and file a claim for fair compensation. Call us today at 1-888-855-2948 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.