What Happens When Two Uninsured Motorists Collide?

A car accident is always a highly stressful, scary and confusing situation. One thing that both drivers can always find relieving is that they have car insurance coverage that can cover the costs of their damages.

However, when both parties are uninsured, it’s a messy, complex situation. If you have found yourself in this situation, it’s important to know what to expect.

Factors of the Accidents May Come Into Play

When a car accident happens and someone is rendered injured as a direct result, certain factors come into play. If neither of the drivers involved has car insurance, things can become murky. In general, the outcome of car accident cases is determined by the element of negligence. This problem is usually compounded when there is no insurance involved.

Most states require drivers to carry at least the minimum car insurance policy so that at least the bare minimum of their expenses can be covered in the event of an accident. In some cases, a driver who is uninsured may not even have a driver’s license as you cannot obtain insurance without a valid license. Some drivers skip out on insurance due to having a bad driving record such as multiple tickets. Others don’t get coverage because they feel that they simply can’t afford it.

Whatever the case, lacking insurance coverage can be detrimental to a driver and carries serious consequences.

What To Expect With No Insurance

If both drivers in an accident lack auto insurance, they may face several ramifications: lawsuits, fines, jail time or revocation of their driver’s license if they have one. If you don’t have insurance but have suffered injuries in a collision with another uninsured driver, things can get especially complicated.

It may be a bit easier if you know the other driver was the one at fault for the accident. Determination of fault can be made through the following factors if the other driver:

• Was under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Was speeding
• Failed to follow traffic rules
• Was distracted
• Behaved recklessly

If you suffered injuries in the accident and the at-fault party has no car insurance, the person’s health insurance may cover your medical expenses. However, if you have also suffered damage to your vehicle, the best thing is to speak with an attorney to learn about your legal options.

Be Smart at the Scene of the Accident

In some cases, the driver responsible for the accident might try to offer you cash to evade a potential lawsuit or police involvement. While it might be tempting to take them up on that offer, especially if you also lack insurance, don’t do it. You need to consider the best options to take when you have an injury.

Additionally, with accidents that result in injuries and significant property damage, the police are required to be called to the scene so an accident report can be made. You don’t want to sacrifice your integrity or a potential compensation from taking the legal route to settle things [source].

What Are Your Legal Options?

Consulting with an attorney is absolutely essential. You will want to make sure you can find one who offers free initial consultations about your options after the accident. You will be able to have good ideas on how you can resolve your case. Since the at-fault driver lacks insurance, you may be able to file a lawsuit against them personally for compensation to cover the cost of repairing your car.

Having a lawyer on your side means you aren’t alone and your rights will be protected as well.