Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Pennsylvania can be challenging, particularly if it involves an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Knowing your rights and understanding the complexities associated with any claims made against these parties is 
paramount in order to receive fair compensation, and this is where an experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer becomes invaluable.
Munley Law understands the difficulties and frustrations you may experience when handling uninsured/underinsured motorist claims. These claims can leave you feeling helpless, vulnerable, and uncertain of the steps necessary to secure your financial future. Our aim is to offer guidance and support during this journey so that no one feels isolated by their struggle alone.
What Are Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims?
Understanding uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist claims can be the key to protecting your rights following a car accident in Pennsylvania. These types of claims come into play when either at-fault drivers lack sufficient insurance or do not have any.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
UM coverage provides protection when involved in an accident with a driver who lacks auto insurance, even though Pennsylvania law mandates everyone have it. When this occurs, UM coverage allows you to claim against your policy for damages and injuries sustained by this particular driver.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
UIM coverage can provide relief in situations in which an at-fault driver does not carry enough insurance to cover all damages and injuries sustained from an accident, leaving you responsible for bearing its financial impact alone. UIM coverage will step in as needed to make up any shortfall, ensuring you are not left financially burdened.
Note that both UM and UIM coverages in Pennsylvania are optional – this means you must decide to include them when creating your insurance policy. Knowing your policy details is crucial as it determines the minimum and extent of coverage you can rely upon during emergencies.
How Prevalent Are Uninsured Motorists in PA?
Uninsured and underinsured drivers are more prevalent than many realize. Pennsylvania, in particular, sees a substantial amount of drivers without adequate insurance coverage on the road – this poses a risk to them and anyone they come into contact with and any potential accidents they might cause.
Recent studies show that a significant portion of Pennsylvania drivers remain uninsured. When an accident happens with one such driver, the financial repercussions can be enormous; without adequate liability coverage beforehand, medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages can quickly mount up, leaving your finances vulnerable.
Being proactive is the key to effectively avoiding uninsured and underinsured drivers. That means ensuring that your insurance policy includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM coverage) and understanding its limits. Furthermore, knowing what legal steps need to be taken if an accident involves an uninsured/underinsured motorist should also be essential.
After an Accident with an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver: Steps to Take
If you find yourself involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in Pennsylvania, taking swift action to secure compensation for injuries can make a substantial difference to the success of your claim. Here’s what to do:
Assure Safety and Report the Accident: Firstly, ensure all involved in an accident are safe. In cases of injuries, call 911 immediately; even minor bodily injuries must be reported to the police, as this provides an official record that may help your claim later on.- Gather Information: At the scene, gather as much information as possible from all parties involved, such as names, contact information, insurance details, photos of vehicle positions, damages, and relevant road signs or conditions.
- Seek Medical Evaluation: Even if you feel fine, getting a medical evaluation is still essential. While injuries may not always appear immediately evident, accurate records are vital when filing claims.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider as soon as an accident has occurred while being sure not to admit fault or provide extensive statements until consulting with a lawyer.
- Document Everything: To keep a clear account of all accident-related documents, including medical bills, repair estimates, any lost wages, and a diary detailing both physical and emotional recovery after an incident, make sure all pertinent paperwork is organized in an easily searchable archive.
- Before accepting any settlement offers from insurance companies, consult with an experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer first. An attorney can help explain your rights and the true worth of your claim.
Assure Safety and Report the Accident: Firstly, ensure all involved in an accident are safe. In cases of injuries, call 911 immediately; even minor bodily injuries must be reported to the police, as this provides an official record that may help your claim later on.Understanding Your Rights and Options
Knowing your legal rights and options is critical once you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Pennsylvania offers several avenues through which compensation can be sought:
If you possess underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, then filing a claim with your own insurance company could provide just compensation as if the at-fault driver had adequate insurance.
Under certain circumstances, legal action against an at-fault driver may be possible; however, this approach could prove challenging if their assets do not allow for this option.
Depending upon the details of an accident, additional parties may bear some responsibility, including employers, vehicle manufacturers, or government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Munley Law understands the complexities involved in these cases, so our experienced Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyers will review yours, provide advice on what course of action should be taken, and explain your rights and options thoroughly.
