Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but discovering that the other driver is uninsured or underinsured can make the situation even more overwhelming. Although most states require liability insurance, uninsured and underinsured drivers are still far too common. When they cause a crash, recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage becomes more complicated—but not impossible. With the right steps and legal guidance, you can still protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Check for Injuries and Contact Law Enforcement
If you’re involved in a collision with an uninsured driver, your immediate actions matter. Start by checking yourself and any passengers for injuries. Then call the police right away. A formal accident report is critical for insurance claims and any legal action later.
While waiting for officers to arrive, gather as much information as possible. This includes the other driver’s contact details, vehicle make and model, and clear photos of the scene, damage, and any visible injuries. Strong documentation helps support your claim, especially when dealing with an uninsured motorist.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve documented the scene, report the accident to your insurance provider promptly. Massachusetts follows a fault-based system, so determining who caused the accident plays a major role in how compensation is handled.
If the uninsured or underinsured driver is found to be at fault, your own policy may help cover your losses. Many policies include uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which is specifically designed for these situations. This coverage can help pay for medical treatment, missed income, and sometimes property damage.
You may also have collision coverage or personal injury protection (PIP), both of which can provide additional support regardless of who caused the crash.
When Insurance Isn’t Enough
If insurance coverage doesn’t fully compensate your losses, you may consider pursuing a legal claim against the uninsured or underinsured driver. A lawsuit could help you recover damages for medical expenses, car repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
However, this option is only effective if the at-fault driver has assets or income to satisfy a judgment. An experienced car accident attorney can assess whether litigation is worthwhile and help you understand your best path forward.
Uninsured Driver Hit-and-Run Accidents
The process is similar if you’re injured in a hit-and-run. Because the at-fault driver can’t be identified, uninsured motorist coverage typically applies. Filing a police report promptly and notifying your insurer right away are essential steps.
Why Working With an Attorney Matters
Navigating a crash involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can be confusing and frustrating—especially if you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, or lost income. A knowledgeable auto accident lawyer can help you:
- Understand your insurance coverage and legal options
- Properly document your claim
- Communicate and negotiate with insurance companies
- Pursue compensation through UM/UIM claims or litigation
At Denn Law Group, we advocate for injured clients. If you were hurt in a crash caused by an uninsured driver, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. By acting quickly, gathering strong documentation, and working with a skilled attorney, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a successful recovery.
Contact our office today to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence.