Car accidents are never pleasant experiences, but they can become even more complicated if the driver who caused the accident does not have insurance. In the state of Georgia, it is illegal to operate a vehicle without minimum liability insurance coverage, but unfortunately, some drivers still choose to break the law. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know what steps to take. In this blog post, we’ll outline what to do if you’re hit by an uninsured driver in Georgia.
Call the Police
The first step you should take after any car accident is to call the police. This is especially important if the other driver does not have insurance. The police will create an official accident report, which can be used as evidence if you need to file a claim with your own insurance company or if you need to take legal action against the other driver.
Gather Information
While you wait for the police to arrive, gather as much information as you can about the other driver and the accident. Take photos of the damage to both vehicles and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as well.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Even if the other driver does not have insurance, you should still notify your own insurance company of the accident. Depending on the type of coverage you have, your insurance may cover some or all of the damages. However, be aware that some insurance policies may not cover accidents caused by uninsured drivers.
Consider Legal Action
If you sustained injuries or significant damage to your vehicle, you may need to consider legal action against the other driver. While it may be difficult to recover damages from an uninsured driver, it’s not impossible. You may be able to file a lawsuit against the driver, or you may be able to pursue compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage.
Consult with an Attorney
If you’re considering legal action, it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney who has experience in car accident cases. An attorney can help you understand your options and guide you through the legal process.
Explore Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is an additional type of insurance coverage that can protect you if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. This coverage can help cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage on your policy, it can be a valuable resource in a situation where you are hit by an uninsured driver.
File a Lawsuit
If you have suffered significant damages in the accident and the other driver is uninsured, you may need to file a lawsuit. You can file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You can also file a property damage lawsuit to recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injury, may not become apparent until hours or even days after the accident. Getting a medical evaluation can ensure that you receive appropriate treatment and help you document your injuries for insurance or legal purposes.
Keep Detailed Records
Throughout the process of dealing with an accident involving an uninsured driver, it’s important to keep detailed records of everything related to the accident. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, and any other expenses associated with the accident. You should also keep a record of all communications with your insurance company, the other driver, and any attorneys involved in the case.
Being involved in an accident with an uninsured driver can be stressful and overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. By following these guidelines and seeking the help of an experienced attorney, you can increase your chances of obtaining compensation for your injuries and other damages.
At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we specialize in personal injury cases, including car accidents involving uninsured drivers in Georgia. We have a team of skilled attorneys who can provide legal guidance and representation for clients who have been involved in these types of accidents.
We can provide legal consultation and advice on your options for pursuing compensation. We can help you understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect them. We can also assist you with filing insurance claims with your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. We can help you negotiate with the insurance company to obtain a fair settlement for your injuries and damages.
If you need to file a lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries and other losses, we can represent you in court. We have experience litigating car accident cases and can help you navigate the legal process to obtain the best possible outcome.
We can help you gather and document evidence related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements. We can also help you compile the necessary documentation to support your insurance claim or lawsuit.
We can communicate with the insurance company and the other driver’s attorney on your behalf. We can negotiate for a fair settlement and protect your interests throughout the process.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver in Georgia, we at Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC can help you navigate the legal process and obtain compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney.