How to Handle a Car Crash When The Other Driver Has No Insurance
It is an unfortunate fact of life that most of us will end up in a car crash at one point or another during our lifetimes, especially on high-activity roadways like I-294. Ideally, they can be resolved quickly by going through insurance companies and collecting for relevant damages, including personal injury and damage to your vehicle. However, in a worst-case scenario, the other driver at fault might not have insurance, seemingly leaving you without any options to get the compensation you are owed. A knowledgeable Illinois personal injury attorney can take steps to see that you are paid out for any damages suffered, even if the other driver has no insurance.
After the Accident
The actions you take in the aftermath of an accident can put you and your attorney in a good position to negotiate with the insurance company. Before anything else, you should check for any injuries for every person in the vehicle. Take note of any pain, loss of mobility, or discomfort. If possible, pull over to a safe spot not far from the site of the accident. Call 911 to report the accident, and request an ambulance if you or your passengers need immediate medical attention.
At this point, you may find out that the driver who struck your vehicle has no insurance or an inadequate policy that will not fully address your damages. Remain calm and try to document every piece of evidence you can, taking photos of your vehicle and any evidence of the crash, such as debris on the roadway. The police officer who arrives on the scene will write a crash report to determine liability, which will be invaluable when you take the claim to your insurance company.
Making an Uninsured Motorist Claim
Any valid insurance policy in the state of Illinois includes uninsured motorist coverage, which covers a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This allows you to collect compensation even if the other driver has little-to-no insurance, or if you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident. But before you make a call to your insurance company, you should get in touch with a skilled personal injury lawyer.
Going into an insurance claim without the fullest preparation can result in you getting a lowballed offer that will not adequately address your damage after an accident. A personal injury lawyer will go to great lengths to secure additional evidence that supports your case, including any surveillance footage, witness statements, and more.
Speak with a Des Plaines, IL Personal Injury Lawyer Today
A car accident is frustrating enough, but when the driver who caused the accident has no insurance, it becomes even more stressful. The Cook County, IL personal injury lawyer at Quinn Law Group, LLC will not rest until he has done everything he can for your case. Attorney Pat Quinn has experience fighting insurance companies and winning settlements for his clients in car accidents, achieving maximum compensation for the people he represents. To schedule a free consultation, call him at 847-232-7180 today.