According to current statistics, it\u2019s believed that an estimated 25 percent of drivers on U.S. roads are without auto insurance. A huge and expensive problem for everyone, uninsured motorists causing accidents cost those unfortunately involved not only money in property damage and personal injury, but also in higher insurance premiums for all drivers who are legally insured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, while uninsured motorist\/underinsured motorist insurance coverage<\/a> is not required in all states, the costs to taxpayers associated with the prosecution of uninsured drivers, including court fees and incarceration, has become an undue burden. Surprisingly, many people don\u2019t fully understand the situation or what happens when an accident occurs involving an uninsured motorist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In many states, no-fault car insurance<\/a> is the answer to dealing with uninsured or hit and run drivers<\/a>. In these states, your insurance takes care of your injuries and damages no matter who caused the crash. In at-fault states, the burden for costs associated with a wreck fall on the driver found to be responsible for the incident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uninsured motorist car insurance coverage (UIM) gives you financial recourse if you get into an accident with a driver who isn\u2019t carrying insurance or if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident. This coverage kicks in to pay for injuries and damages you suffer as a result of a wreck with an uninsured driver in an at-fault state. Some no-fault states also require you carry UIM, even though your own liability is there to help with any injuries and damages you sustain. Many states require UIM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should carry enough to replace your vehicle and pay for your medical costs in the event of an accident. In states that require it, you\u2019ll need at least the minimum required amount. It\u2019s a good idea to carry this coverage even if it\u2019s not required. To decide an exact amount, talk with your insurance agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just like liability insurance, UIM covers medical costs and property damage associated with a covered event, such as a car crash, with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver. Different states have different rules for other items you can pay for with your UIM coverage, but most commonly, you may use this for funeral expenses, lost wages due to injuries and recuperation, and vehicle repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In an at-fault state<\/a>, your insurance will cover their costs \u2013 up to your policy limits. In a no-fault state, they may take you to court since they won\u2019t have the insurance necessary to pay for their injuries and damages. On the other hand, they may not want to report the wreck at all, since driving without insurance<\/a> is a big problem within the legal system and can result in a citation, fines, loss of registration and driver\u2019s license and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Should you hit an uninsured motorist, you don\u2019t want to just drive away and forget about it. You have an obligation mandated by most states to report the accident, especially if the damage is over the threshold amount of $1,000. Not only that, if injuries are involved, you could be breaking the law by leaving the scene of an accident. Failing to report the accident altogether can lead to a heavy fine and legal consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Furthermore, if you have insurance in an at-fault state and the accident is your fault, then you\u2019re liable and your insurance company must pay for damages you caused, regardless of whether the other driver has insurance or not. The evident drawback to reporting an accident to your insurer is that your annual premiums are likely to go up. But, it\u2019s still better than facing the possibility of having your coverage dropped or facing legal action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uninsured motorist coverage means the driver has no insurance at all. Underinsured motorist coverage means the driver has insurance coverage, but it may not be enough to cover injuries and damages that driver causes in a wreck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The answer could be yes or no. Many insurance companies will not raise your rates if you are in an accident that is not your fault. If the accident is not your fault and the driver who caused the wreck is uninsured or left the scene, then you shouldn\u2019t get dinged by your car insurance company. In some states, it is expressly against the law for insurance companies to raise rates or deny coverage after a not-at-fault accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it\u2019s always best to know beforehand how your insurance company is going to act in any circumstance. If you don\u2019t like their policies, you should shop around and compare car insurance<\/a> companies for more favorable conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another thing to watch out for \u2013 don\u2019t be a victim of a scam. There are individuals who prey on innocent motorists and set up a \u201cdeliberate accidents\u201d. For example, a car speeds up behind you, while another one gets in front of you and slams on the brakes, resulting in a rear-end collision. You\u2019re considered at-fault because you ran into them. The so-called \u201cvictim\u201d of the crash will then attempt to file a claim against your insurance company, often reporting more damage than actually exists or a non-life threatening injury. In some instances, they may try to get you to pay them cash to avoid having the accident appear on your record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regardless of the circumstances, the safest bet is to call the police to the scene. Although you may be looking at a rate hike, it\u2019s still better than getting suckered by a scam or being accused of breaking the law. Protect yourself and check into adding uninsured\/ underinsured coverage to your existing policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t leave anything to chance. Freeway Insurance will make sure you\u2019re getting the best rate on your auto insurance. Why not get a free auto insurance quote<\/a> today?<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is Uninsured Motorist?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do I Need?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What If I Cause an Accident with an Uninsured Driver?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat is the Difference Between Uninsured Motorist Covered and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Will My Auto Insurance Increase if I File an Uninsured Motorist Claim?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t Be the Victim of a Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Find Affordable Car Insurance Online Today<\/h2>\n\n\n\n