What Are My Options If I Was Injured by a Driver With No Insurance?

 Posted on November 10, 2020 in Car Accident

A car accident can be a frightening, traumatic experience. Even if a collision does not seem to cause serious injuries, it can still have long-lasting effects on your health and well-being. Addressing the costs of immediate medical treatment, long-term therapy, impairment to your ability to earn an income, repairs to your vehicle, or replacement of other damaged property can be difficult. These matters can become even more problematic if the driver who was responsible for the collision did not have insurance or if their insurance policy will not fully cover the costs of your damages. In cases involving uninsured or underinsured motorists, a skilled attorney can help you determine how you can receive the financial compensation you deserve.

UM and UIM Coverage

In Illinois, liability insurance policies are required to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage at the legal minimum amounts. The minimum coverage for bodily injury or death is $25,000 for one person or $50,000 for multiple people. Your liability insurance will provide you with at least this amount if you are injured by a motorist without insurance. Depending on the terms of your policy, you may have coverage that is above this minimum amount. Your policy may also include underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage that will address the difference between what is covered by an at-fault driver’s policy and the full amount of your damages.

Before making a claim through another driver’s insurance policy or with your own insurance company, it is advisable to consult with an attorney. Insurance companies will be looking to minimize the value of your claim, and any information you provide to them could be used to reduce the amount you can receive. Our lawyers can speak to insurance companies on your behalf, and we will work to negotiate a settlement that will fully address your injuries and damages and ensure that you receive compensation that will allow you to recover from your accident.

In addition to insurance coverage, you may also be able to pursue compensation from other parties who were at fault for an accident. For instance, if a collision occurred because of faulty vehicle parts such as brakes, tires, or steering systems, you may be able to pursue a product liability lawsuit against an auto parts manufacturer or a person or company that did not perform repairs correctly. If your accident occurred on a dangerous highway or intersection, you may be able to pursue compensation from a city or state government that did not take the proper measures to address hazards that affected public safety.

Contact Our Schaumburg Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorneys

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we can help you understand your best options following an injury with an uninsured driver. We will provide you with legal representation and fight to make sure you are fully compensated for your medical treatment, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. Schedule a free consultation with our Arlington Heights car accident lawyers by calling 847-797-8000.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/vehicles/mandatory_insurance.html