Collisions are a regular occurrence. Drivers lose control due to slippery road conditions after rain or excessive speed. They fail to monitor their surroundings due to their mobile phones. Oftentimes, it is clear who caused a crash due to violations of traffic statutes or negligent behavior. Those at fault for car wrecks are liable and usually carry liability insurance to protect themselves from financial losses.
Some motorists make the mistake of foregoing insurance because they underestimate the risk of causing a wreck. Who pays when an uninsured driver causes a crash?
The uninsured motorist
When other people identify the driver at fault for a collision, they may be able to take legal action against them if they lack adequate liability insurance. Filing a civil lawsuit can lead to appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and property damage.
Outside parties
Maybe the uninsured driver was on the clock and driving their own vehicle for business purposes. Their employer might be liable. Other times, companies could be liable due to defective vehicle components or improper maintenance services. It may be possible to hold a third party accountable for collision expenses.
Supplemental insurance
Many drivers carry more than just liability coverage. They carry uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage. Depending on the terms of the policy, the party not at fault for the collision may sometimes be able to use their policy to cover crash costs.
Those trying to make sense of their options after a motor vehicle collision caused by an uninsured driver may need assistance, and that’s okay. Filing insurance claims or lawsuits successfully can help people injured by uninsured drivers recover their losses.
