Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers and How to Handle Recovery
When another driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage, it can make the aftermath of a car wreck even more challenging. In Florida, this scenario is particularly common due to the state’s high rate of uninsured and underinsured motorists. That said, there are sources of relief. Talk to a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer to access the monetary support you need to pay for recovery expenses.
Accessing Funds Despite a Driver’s Lack of Coverage
There is unfortunately a high likelihood that a Florida accident could involve an uninsured driver. This is because the state has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the United States. According to an Insurance Research Council study, between 25% and 30% of Florida drivers are uninsured. This means more than one in four drivers, which is a high statistic.
Should a collision occur, your own insurance policy is primarily responsible for covering certain damages. This is true regardless of fault. Taking this and other factors into account, there are a range of ways you could seek financial relief.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. In Florida, all drivers are required to carry PIP insurance. PIP covers medical expenses, lost wages, and related costs up to your policy limits.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. While not mandatory like PIP, UM/UIM coverage compensates for damages when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. The high percentage of uninsured drivers in the state underscores the importance of carrying adequate insurance coverage, including UM/UIM policies when feasible, to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident.
- Collision coverage. Another form of optional coverage, collision coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle after an accident.
- Legal action. If insurance coverage is insufficient, you may consider filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover damages, but this route depends on the individual’s ability to pay, which may be limited if they lacked insurance initially.
Being involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in Florida presents hurdles. Given the significant number of uninsured drivers in the state, it’s prudent to review and possibly enhance your insurance coverage to include protections like UM/UIM, safeguarding yourself against potential financial hardships arising from such unfortunate events. That said, accidents are unexpected events and they can happen regardless of if you have minimum coverage or if you have invested in every insurance option.
Connect with a Legal Professional
Whatever your situation, legal guidance can help navigate the complexities of accessing a settlement after a Florida car collision. An experienced Boca Raton personal injury lawyer can advise on your rights and potential avenues for compensation. They can handle communications with insurance companies and represent your interests.
Is it time you receive the funds you need to pay off accident expenses after being struck by an uninsured driver in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, or Pompano Beach? By taking prompt and appropriate actions, such as documenting the incident and consulting with the legal professionals at Leifer & Ramirez, you can secure the compensation you deserve. Call 561-660-9421 to explore your options for financial relief.
