Being involved in a car accident is always stressful, but it becomes even more complicated when the other driver lacks adequate insurance. Despite laws requiring auto liability coverage, many Florida cars uninsured. Uninsured vehicles complicate recovering damages sustained in an accident such as medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs, but there are ways to navigate this challenge with good legal representation.

If you're in an accident with an uninsured driver, the steps you take right after the accident are crucial. First, following an accident report the incident to law enforcement to document the facts. Collect as much information as you can—this includes the other driver’s details, vehicle specifics, and photos of the accident scene and vehicles.  Do not admit fault just report the facts to your insurance company immediately to log the incident.  Florida is a “No Fault” State  which means that regardless of who is at fault, your auto insurance will cover the medical expenses and lost wages up to $10,000.00. 

If the at fault driver is uninsured driver be at fault, your own car insurance will cover your damages if your policy includes Uninsured Coverage Benefits.  The best way to protect yourself is to make sure your automobile policy includes UM coverage benefits equal to your policy bodily injury liability coverage limits.

There are situations where you might consider legal action personally against the uninsured driver to reclaim your damages such as when the uninsured driver has assets that are collectible.  Legal action will help recover costs related to medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering damages. However, this approach is often only viable if the driver has assets or financial means to satisfy a judgment. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer can provide guidance on the practicality of this path and aid in documenting your case efficiently.

Your automobile uninsured coverage also provides benefits when you are injured in a not at fault hit and run accident.  In this situation, your insurance will pay you for damages and then pursue the at fault driver. Again, filing a police report is essential to documenting the facts of the accident.

Though dealing with an irresponsible uninsured driver can be frustrating, you don’t have to tackle it alone. Retaining a knowledgeable lawyer will reduce the stress and provide guidance through the insurance claims process and assist with securing compensation for your injury damages.