Auto accidents and other incidents resulting in personal injury are always troublesome and expensive, but the situation can become even more complicated if the person responsible for the injuries does not have insurance. In Idaho, uninsured drivers are a common issue, and it’s essential to know what to do if you’re a victim of an accident caused by one. This article will provide a quick overview of what you should do if the person who caused your injuries does not have insurance.
Table of Contents
Contact the Police
The first thing you should do after an accident is to contact the police. Whether the other driver is insured or not, you need to call the police to report the accident and get an official record of what happened. When the police arrive at the scene, they will conduct an investigation and create an accident report. This report will be essential in any future legal proceedings, so make sure you get a copy of it.
Seek Medical Attention
If you or anyone else involved in the accident is injured, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t think your injury is severe, you should still get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussion, may not manifest symptoms right away but could cause long-term damage if left untreated.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If the person who caused the accident does not have insurance, you may need to hire a personal injury attorney to help you navigate the legal process. An experienced attorney will be able to evaluate your case, determine your legal options, and help you recover the compensation you deserve. They can also negotiate with insurance providers and represent you in court if necessary.
Filing a Lawsuit
If the person who caused your injuries does not have insurance, you may need to file a lawsuit against them to recover damages. In Idaho, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.
When filing a lawsuit, the burden is on you to prove that the other driver was at fault and caused your injuries. Your attorney will gather evidence, such as witness statements, medical reports, and accident reconstruction, to build your case. If the other driver is found liable, you may be entitled to damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In Idaho, insurance companies are required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to their customers. This coverage can help protect you in case you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. If you have this coverage, your insurance company will pay for your damages up to your policy limit.
It’s essential to review your insurance policy carefully to see if you have this coverage, and if not, consider adding it. While it may result in a slightly higher premium, it can provide peace of mind and protect you from unforeseen expenses in case of an accident.
Conclusion
Being in an accident caused by an uninsured driver can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. After seeking medical attention and contacting the police, be sure to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through the legal process. If necessary, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. Remember to review your insurance policy to see if you have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage and consider adding it if you don’t. With the right approach, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.