When an uninsured driver causes an accident, the situation can become complicated for everyone involved. Understanding what happens to uninsured drivers in an accident is key, whether you are the victim or the one at fault. If you have been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it is important to know your options and the consequences for the driver at fault.
What Is Considered an Uninsured Driver?
An uninsured driver is someone who does not carry the required car insurance or fails to meet the state’s minimum coverage. In New Jersey, drivers are legally required to have liability, personal injury, and property damage insurance. If a driver does not have this coverage, they are considered uninsured.
What Happens to Uninsured Drivers in an Accident
Uninsured drivers can face serious consequences if they are involved in an accident. These penalties can vary by state. However, here are some of the most common:
- Fines and Penalties: Uninsured drivers often face fines for not having proper insurance coverage. These fines can add up quickly, especially if the driver is at fault in an accident.
- License Suspension: In many cases, the uninsured driver may have their driver’s license suspended. The length of the suspension can vary depending on the state laws and the severity of the accident.
- Legal Action: If the uninsured driver is responsible for the accident, the victim may take legal action to recover damages. This can result in a civil lawsuit where the uninsured driver may be required to pay for medical bills, property damage, and other expenses.
- Higher Insurance Costs: If the uninsured driver decides to get insurance later, their premiums are likely to be significantly higher. Insurance companies consider uninsured drivers to be a higher risk. This can lead to increased rates.
What Happens to Victims Hit by Uninsured Drivers?
If you are the victim of an accident caused by an uninsured driver, there are several options available to help you recover damages, even if the other driver is not insured.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
In New Jersey, drivers can opt for uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. If you have UM coverage, it may help cover your medical bills, property damage, and lost wages after an accident caused by an uninsured driver. This coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver does not have insurance or has insufficient coverage.
When an uninsured driver causes an accident, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may cover your injuries and losses. The exact benefits depend on the details of your insurance policy.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal injury protection (PIP) is another type of coverage that applies regardless of who is at fault in the accident. New Jersey requires PIP coverage for all drivers. This means that even if the other driver is uninsured, your PIP coverage can help pay for medical expenses and lost wages.
This is an important option that can assist in covering costs after an accident, especially when dealing with an uninsured driver.
At
Tate Accident Law, we help our clients collect PIP benefits without any additional charges. We make sure that your immediate medical expenses and lost wages are covered while you recover.
Lawsuit Against the Uninsured Driver
If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage or PIP, you may need to take legal action against the uninsured driver to recover damages. This could involve a civil lawsuit where you seek compensation for your medical bills, property damage, and pain and suffering.
However, if the uninsured driver lacks insurance, they may not have the financial means to pay the damages. In these cases, recovering compensation can be more difficult, and the lawsuit may not result in a satisfactory financial settlement.
How Tate Accident Law Can Help
If you are involved in an
accident with an uninsured driver, we are here to guide you through the process. We have over 30 years of experience handling car accident injury cases, and we have won more than 3,000 cases. Our team is committed to providing you with the support you need while we work to get you the compensation you deserve.
Tate Accident Law offers free case reviews 24/7, and we work on a no-win, no-fee basis. This means you do not pay unless we win your case. We handle both the property damage and injury portions of your case, and our clients have direct access to their attorney’s personal cell phone number. We are always here to answer your questions and provide guidance during this challenging time.
Accidents involving uninsured drivers can be frustrating. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Understanding your options will help you navigate the aftermath of the accident. If you have been injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, our team at Tate Accident Law is ready to help.
Learn more about our
practice areas. Contact us today for a free case review, and let us help you get the justice you need.
