When you have been involved in an accident caused by another driver, the at-fault party is typically responsible for paying for damages and injuries. However, not every driver on the road follows the law.
Some individuals drive without insurance, and in Georgia, operating a vehicle without insurance is illegal.
Getting into an accident with an uninsured driver can be stressful and frustrating. You may wonder how you will recover the costs of your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
The good news is that there are ways to protect yourself and seek compensation even if the other driver has no insurance.
How to Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens
The best way to prepare for the possibility of an accident with an uninsured driver is by making sure your own insurance policy includes specific protections.
Here are two important types of coverage you should consider:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is an optional add-on to your car insurance policy.
This coverage is designed to protect you if you are involved in an accident and the at-fault driver does not have insurance.
With Uninsured Motorist coverage in place, your own insurance company will step in to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages that would have otherwise been paid by the at-fault driver.
Resident Relative Coverage
In some cases, even if you personally do not have UM coverage on your vehicle, you may still be protected.
If you live with a family member who has Uninsured Motorist coverage on their car insurance policy, you could be covered under their policy.
This applies even if the family member’s vehicle was not involved in the accident. It is called “resident relative” coverage and can provide a valuable safety net when the unexpected happens.
Check Your Insurance Policy
If you are unsure whether you have Uninsured Motorist coverage, it is a good idea to contact your car insurance provider and review your current policy.
Not every policy automatically includes UM coverage, and you may need to request that it be added.
Adding Uninsured Motorist coverage to your policy can help protect you from financial hardship in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver. It is a small investment that can make a big difference when you need it most.
If You Have Been in an Accident, Call the Mike Hostilo Law Firm
Dealing with an uninsured driver can be complicated, but you do not have to navigate the process alone.
If you have been involved in an accident, contact the Mike Hostilo Law Firm today.
Our team is here to help you understand your options, work with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on your recovery.
Call the Mike Hostilo Law Firm for a free consultation and let us work for you.
