A car accident shakes up everything. Even the best-case scenario is an inconvenience with major complications. An uninsured driver makes matters messier. You could be amid high medical bills, lost income and other side effects of a bad crash. Now the person who caused such a disaster is not covered, and cannot cover you.
If person the who hit you does not have insurance, what can you do?
After the accident
When you are involved in a collision with an uninsured driver, your well-being is on the line. You might worry about how you will be fully compensated. Despite the frustration you feel, it is important to jump into action. If this happens, follow these first few steps:
- Information. You should get the driver’s contact information first. Collect any insurance information they might have and give it to your insurance company immediately.
- Signed statement. Some insurance companies require a signature from the uninsured driver. This statement clarifies and confirms that the driver does not have insurance.
- Submit a claim. After you gather all the information you need, submit a claim to your own car insurance company.
What happens next?
Under Colorado law, insurance companies selling automobile insurance are required to offer uninsured motorist insurance, unless otherwise specified. This type of coverage will take the at-fault driver’s place and recover anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000 of your total damages.
It is possible that some insurance companies try to maneuver around this law by using “anti-stacking” language. Insurance agents may try to lower your premium. While this saves you money, it reduces their liability and limits your safety net. It can leave you and your family unprotected in the event of an accident.
If you find yourself in a situation where the at-fault driver is uninsured, there are options out there. It is wise to contact your insurance company immediately and check on your policy. There is a chance they will cover damages caused by the other driver. If not, the next step might be to sue the driver in Colorado court.