An Uninsured Driver Hit Me. How do I Get Compensation?
Michigan has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the United States, with 25.5% of its drivers uninsured in 2021. Auto accidents can be traumatic and expensive, particularly if you suffer injuries or significant vehicle damage. The situation becomes even more complex and stressful when the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
In such circumstances in Michigan, it’s crucial to understand the state’s insurance requirements, your compensation options, and the process for filing a claim. If you’re injured in a crash with an uninsured driver, you may have to rely on filing a claim with your own insurance company. If your injuries are severe, contact a car accident attorney at Hanflik Law for a free case evaluation to understand your compensation options.
Michigan Insurance Requirements
Michigan operates under a no-fault auto insurance system, meaning that your insurance policy covers certain costs related to an accident irrespective of who is at fault. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory for all auto insurance policies in Michigan. PIP insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs for you and sometimes for your passengers. The coverages for some of the benefits maybe unlimited and in other instances up to a dollar cap limit. A car accident attorney at Hanflik Law can review your auto policy and assist you in seeking compensation for your injuries.
Compensation Options for Accidents with Underinsured or Uninsured Drivers
If you are injured in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver, you can still seek compensation. First, you will file a claim with your PIP insurance to receive benefits under your policy.
If your injuries exceed these benefits or have led to serious impairment or permanent disability, you next file a claim with the negligent driver’s insurer. If they lack insurance, or their policy limit isn’t sufficient to cover your damages, you can receive compensation from your own underinsured or uninsured motorist insurance.
If you do not have underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, you may potentially seek compensation directly from the at-fault driver. However, this is often an unreliable compensation source since uninsured drivers frequently lack sufficient personal wealth or assets to cover your damages.
Importance of Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Insurance on Your Auto Policy
In a serious accident, injuries can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, and few people have the financial means to cover such a claim. UM (Uninsured Motorist) and UIM (Underinsured Motorist) coverage is available with most policies in Michigan, but they need to be purchased separately since they’re not automatically included.
Adding UM and UIM coverage to your auto insurance policy can ensure you and your family receive compensation if an uninsured or underinsured motorist causes a severe accident. Your attorney at Hanflik Law can help review your policy after a crash to determine your coverage and help you claim the full benefits you are entitled to under your insurance and that of the at-fault driver.
Protecting Your Rights and Seeking Compensation
Handling the aftermath of an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver can be daunting. Being aware of your rights and the compensation options available is critical to obtaining the financial support needed for recovery.
If you find yourself in this predicament, reach out to Hanflik Law. Our experienced attorneys will review your auto policy terms, including the UM/UIM provisions, and will fight for the compensation you deserve from the car insurance company.