Uninsured Motorist Lawyer

Each year in Missouri, thousands of people are in car accidents involving an uninsured motorist.

According to some estimates, the average cost of car insurance in Missouri is around $1,334 annually, making it 6.5% less than the national average.

Despite being compulsory and inexpensive in Missouri, 16% of drivers remain uninsured. As a result, the state mandates uninsured/underinsured coverage. This type of coverage can be highly beneficial in cases where drivers find themselves in an accident with an uninsured motorist or with someone whose coverage does not adequately cover all associated costs.

However, the uninsured motorist coverage isn’t all-encompassing.

Uninsured Motorist Accidents

To ensure adequate protection in the event of an accident with an uninsured motorist, it’s essential to understand the limitations and exclusions of your insurance policy. Uninsured motorist coverage typically has a minimum limit of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury. However, higher limits are available for those who desire greater protection.

It’s important to note that uninsured motorist coverage only applies to bodily injury and does not cover damage to your vehicle or property. This means that if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be responsible for covering the costs of repairs yourself.

Specific exclusions may apply to your policy, such as not being covered if you use a vehicle to transport passengers for a fee, like with a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Committing a crime while driving may also invalidate your coverage. Additionally, if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, you must report the incident to the police within 24 hours and file a claim with your insurance company within 30 days to avoid having your claim denied.

Understanding these crucial details can ensure you are adequately protected in an accident with an uninsured motorist.

Underinsured Motorist Accidents

Reducing monthly expenses by opting for minimum car insurance coverage may seem wise; however, it can lead to significant problems if you are involved in an accident with an underinsured driver. You could incur substantial out-of-pocket expenses if the driver at fault lacks insurance coverage for your medical bills and vehicle damage repairs.

Underinsured motorist coverage can help protect you financially in these situations. This type of coverage can help cover the gap between the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage and the actual costs associated with the accident. Carrying underinsured motorist coverage ensures you are not left with overwhelming expenses after an accident.

Who will pay for your injuries if you are a victim of an uninsured driver car accident?

Liability insurance can be expensive, and as a result, there are many uninsured motorists on the road. In the unfortunate event that you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it can be challenging to determine how to receive compensation for your bodily injuries. However, there is an avenue for financial protection – your insurance policy’s Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage.

By carrying UM coverage, you can receive compensation for your injuries even if the at-fault driver does not have insurance. This coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other associated expenses. While dealing with the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured driver can be frustrating, having UM coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection when you need it most.

What Vehicle Damage is Compensated Under UM Coverage?

It’s essential to carefully review the details of your UM coverage to determine whether vehicle damage is included in the compensation offered. If your policy does cover vehicle damage, you may receive financial compensation for repairs to your vehicle in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver. However, if your UM coverage does not include vehicle damage, it may be covered under your collision coverage.

It’s worth noting that there may be situations where neither UM nor collision coverage applies to the vehicle damage. In these cases, you may be responsible for paying for the repairs out of pocket. An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can provide guidance and legal advice regarding the specific terms of your insurance coverage.

When and How Much Compensation May You Receive?

Compensation for accidents involving uninsured drivers depends on your insurance policy. Some policies cover hit-and-run accidents, but only if your vehicle was damaged or you were injured. Others may require identifying the driver and vehicle for compensation.

If you are injured while on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation and disability benefits, which can help cover your medical expenses. Additionally, your insurance policy may include medical payments coverage, which can also provide compensation for medical bills related to the accident. In some cases, your UM compensation may be reduced by the amount you receive from these other sources of financial support.

If you or a family member are riding in another person’s car and are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured motorist, the primary insurance policy for claiming compensation will be that of the vehicle’s owner. Your UM coverage will generally serve as a secondary source of compensation and will only pay for bodily damages that the primary policy has not compensated. It’s essential to understand the specific terms of your insurance policy to determine what compensation you may be eligible for in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver.

How to Find Out If Someone Has Car Insurance?

If you are involved in a car accident and are looking to determine if the other driver has car insurance, there are several methods you can use to obtain this information.

Ask for Their Insurance Information

Your first course of action should be to ask the other driver for their insurance information. However, remember that not everyone will be truthful or forthcoming with this information. In some cases, the other driver may refuse to provide their insurance information or may provide false information.

Check for an Insurance Sticker

Another method to determine if someone has car insurance is to look for an insurance sticker on their windshield. Many insurance companies provide their customers with these stickers, which indicate that the driver has at least some form of coverage. However, it’s important to note that the absence of a sticker doesn’t necessarily mean the driver is uninsured.

Seek Help from the Police

If the other driver is uncooperative or you are unable to obtain their insurance information, contacting the police may be your best option. When you file a police report after an accident, the officer will typically check the other driver’s insurance status and include this information in the report. You can obtain a copy of the police report from the precinct where it was filed to learn if the other driver has insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s important to consult with a qualified attorney for comprehensive and personalized legal advice related to uninsured motorist claims, as laws and regulations may vary by jurisdiction.

Speak With a St. Louis Uninsured Motorist Lawyer

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, and dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming. It is crucial to understand the importance of having proper insurance coverage, including uninsured motorist coverage, to protect yourself in case of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Additionally, knowing how to find out if the other driver has car insurance can help you take the necessary steps to receive proper compensation for your damages and injuries.

However, if you have been injured in a car accident, it is essential to speak with a St. Louis uninsured motorist lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. They can also help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you throughout the process.

Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Contact a St. Louis car accident lawyer today to ensure you get the help and compensation you deserve.

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