subject: Uninsured Driver And Comprehensive Auto Insurance Provide Financial Protection [print this page] All states now require automobile insurance and it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle without the minimum insurance coverage set by each state. Still the reality is that there are many uninsured drivers on the road. So some states will require that you also purchase Uninsured Motorist Coverage.
Drivers without insurance policies are 10 times more apt to get in their automobiles to drive after indulging in alcoholic beverages. They are also 3 times more apt to be found guilty of driving negligently. Around 15% of all drivers do not have any insurance. Therefore, it is hardly amazing that 10% of motorists have found themselves in accidents with such uninsured drivers. What are the steps to take if you have this experience and how can you achieve some level of protection?
When an accident happens, it's hard to know whether or not the other driver has insurance. You should respond the way you would to any accident. Write down as much information as you can about the other car, like make and model, and license and registration numbers. Get the other driver's information as well, keeping in mind that he might not be telling the truth.
Take notes about the scene of the accident, too, like where road signs were located, or what the lighting and weather were like. Write down what damage there was to the other car and whether that car had its lights on. More information is better than less. Get contact information from any witnesses present. If you have a camera handy, take pictures of the damage, and also try to get a picture of the other driver, since police might need it.
If you carry comprehensive auto insurance, then your insurance company will pay for all of the repairs to your car. However, you may lose any discounts that you receive for not filing claims and may have to cover a deductible before the insurance company pays for anything. If you are hit by an uninsured motorist, then you will have to pay the deductible unless your policy specifically waives that requirement.
Drivers that have their cars insured may carry just the minimum legal limit and this may be less than what is necessary to cover any damages in an accident which is their responsibility. Unless you have underinsured motorist insurance, in incidents where the at-fault driver cannot cover the left over expenses out of pocket, these expenses could be left with you.
The most advantageous approach is to drive defensively, always wear a seatbelt, and to purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with your vehicle insurance policy.
by: Dan Carter
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