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CategoriesWhat Happens If I’m In a Crash with an Uninsured Driver
Most states require drivers to have liability insurance, but many people still drive without it. The Insurance Research Council reports that about 16.4% of Missouri drivers did not have auto insurance in 2019.
If you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you must take a proactive approach to protect your rights to compensation. A car accident attorney from Cofman Townsley can advise you on taking legal action to cover your expenses related to the crash.
6 Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver in Missouri
These steps can help you protect your rights if you are involved in a car accident caused by an uninsured driver in Missouri. They can ensure you receive sufficient payment for your physical, emotional, and financial hardships.
You must call 911 to ask for police officers and request emergency assistance in case of injuries. If the at-fault driver leaves the accident scene, it is crucial to report the collision to the police.
Inform the officer of the fleeing driver’s license plate and car’s make, model, and year so they can track them down. Officers will investigate the accident, talk to witnesses, access video and photo evidence, and complete a report. This report is critical when you need to file an injury claim.
If possible, politely ask for the other driver’s name, address, phone number, and license number. However, don’t let your emotions lead you to confront the other driver if they refuse to give you their details.
You can wait for the police officer to interview the other driver during the accident investigation. However, should the driver speed away before the police arrive, you can take pictures of their vehicle, including license plate information. These pictures can help the officers identify the car.
If it is safe to do so, take multiple photos and videos as soon as possible. You should capture pictures and videos of your vehicle’s damaged areas from several angles. Photograph any damage inside the car, including the imploded airbags.
Try also to capture photos and videos of broken glass, vehicle parts, and debris strewn throughout the surrounding area after a collision. Pictures of skid marks on the pavement can highlight a driver’s negligence since the marks indicate a sudden stop or excessive speeding.
Because of the adrenaline rush after the accident, you may not feel pain and other symptoms until hours or days later. Symptoms of whiplash, such as neck pain and headaches, may not show up for several days.
You should see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident to find out whether you have sustained any injuries. If you are experiencing numbness and headaches, visit your doctor for a follow-up. Records related to your medical care will serve as proof of your injury for the insurance company when determining whether you are entitled to compensation.
Report the accident to your car insurance provider to determine the amount of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage covers damages from an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver. This coverage provides you the same protection as if someone with liability insurance injured you.
Your UM coverage in Missouri must include the following minimum limits:
- $25,000 for physical injury for one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury from an accident
Since Missouri is a pure comparative fault state, the insurance adjuster considers your percentage of fault when you file your uninsured motorist claim. They may shift liability onto you. The adjuster can assert that you lack sufficient evidence to prove that the other driver was at fault.
Your Missouri car accident attorney can help you file and investigate your claim immediately after your crash. They will use all your evidence to prove the other driver’s fault in your car accident. Taking this step can help you receive the highest settlement award possible.
Call for a Free Consultation About Your Uninsured Car Accident Claim
The car accident attorneys at Cofman Townsley can assist you if you are involved in a Missouri car accident with an uninsured driver. They can guide you through filing your claim and taking your case to court if needed.
Schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in our office when you call us today.