You’re minding your own business and following the rules of the road when all of a sudden a vehicle slams into you. Unfortunately, car accidents happen everyday in Tennessee and across the nation on interstates, highways and rural roads.
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, 149,675 car accidents occurred in Tennessee alone.
But what happens when one of these drivers has a car accident with an uninsured motorist?
A Step-by-Step Guide for Car Accidents with an Uninsured Driver
Follow these five steps below to help guide you through this scary and stressful experience:
1. Call a police officer to the scene.
If an individual is uninsured, they may tell you that you don’t need the police and they can exchange information on their own. This isn’t true. Make certain there is a police report to go along with your accident. Your insurance company will require it.
2. Get their contact information.
Even though the police will get their information, you should always get it as well. In addition, be sure to gather any information from witnesses, pictures and write down any information possible about the vehicle that hit you.
3. Contact your insurance company.
Call your auto insurance company and let them know immediately what has occurred. Make them aware that the other driver is uninsured. Hopefully, you have uninsured motorist coverage that can help take care of your expenses. If not, a personal injury claim may have to be filed.
4. Take care of yourself.
If you have uninsured motorist protection, this will often help pay for your medical expenses. Your health care insurance may help as well. Whatever the case may be, taking care of yourself is vital. Visit a doctor as soon as possible after an accident, even in you feel okay.
5. Take care of your vehicle.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance should help take care of car repairs. If you do not, the only real option is to sue the other party. Never take cash at the scene if it is offered to you.
Car accidents are frustrating, time consuming and painful. When you’re in an accident with an uninsured motorist, it only adds to the pain. Follow these guidelines presented above and get in touch with a personal injury attorney near you who can help you through this process.