There are few things more terrifying than being involved in a severe car accident. The situation becomes even more complicated when that accident was caused by an uninsured negligent or reckless driver.
Traditionally, we hold insurance companies responsible for doling out compensation to victims. Indeed, the state of Florida requires that all drivers have valid automobile insurance coverage at all times to ensure that payment is always available.
This means an uninsured driver that causes an accident has not only broken the law, but may be personally responsible for compensation expenses. Those expenses, however, may be far more difficult for you to obtain.
Here are steps you should take if you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver:
Collect Essential Information
The first thing you should do following any automobile accident is collect information from witnesses and drivers. This should include phone numbers, addresses, and a brief description of what each person saw. This will help you piece together the incident if you choose to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If your injuries are too extensive and you must be transferred to a hospital, you can collect the information later by referring to a police report — which should have been created immediately following the accident.
You should also keep a personal journal during this time, detailing your injuries and your recovery.
File an Uninsured Motorist Claim
Your next step will be to file an uninsured motorist claim against your insurance provider. Your provider will likely try to award you the smallest amount possible, but it should help you cover a decent portion of your medical and automobile repair bills.
You will not, however, be given any compensation for your pain and suffering, or anything else that cannot be accurately measured in dollars and cents.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Even if you have decided to file an uninsured motorist claim, you should get in contact with an experienced car accident attorney to help you determine your next steps.
Perhaps the award from your insurance company fails to cover your expenses. Or maybe you simply wish to fight for the full compensation you deserve. An attorney can walk you through the process and ensure you make the best choice for your future.
Consider a Personal Injury Lawsuit
At some point, your attorney may ask you to consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. This lawsuit type is designed to award compensation to victims injured by the negligence or recklessness of a third party.
If your lawsuit is successful, you could walk away with compensation for medical bills, future medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of income, permanent disfigurement, and future loss of income — among other things.
Get in Touch With a Car Accident Lawyer for Assistance
Have you or a loved one been injured in an automobile accident caused by an uninsured driver? This should never keep you from collecting the compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced Daytona Beach car accident lawyer at Zimmet & Zimmet by calling 386-255-6400.
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