Introduction
Car accidents are stressful enough, but what happens when the at-fault driver has no insurance? Unfortunately, thousands of drivers on the road operate without insurance, leaving accident victims scrambling to recover compensation. Here’s what you need to know if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver in Pennsylvania.
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your auto insurance policy, you can file a claim with your own insurer. This coverage protects you if an uninsured driver causes an accident. Pennsylvania does not require UM coverage, so check your policy to see if you’re protected.
- Filing a Lawsuit Against the Uninsured Driver
In some cases, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver personally. However, many uninsured drivers lack the assets to cover your damages, making it difficult to recover compensation through a lawsuit.
- Health Insurance as a Backup for Medical Bills
If you don’t have UM coverage, your health insurance may cover some of your medical expenses. However, you may be responsible for co-pays and deductibles.
- Pennsylvania’s Limited Tort vs. Full Tort
Your ability to sue for pain and suffering may be limited by Pennsylvania’s auto insurance laws. If you have limited tort coverage, you might not be able to claim non-economic damages unless the accident caused serious injuries. Full tort coverage allows you to sue for the full extent of your damages.
Conclusion
Being hit by an uninsured driver is frustrating, but you still have options. Jensen Bagnato Law can help you explore your legal rights and insurance claims to maximize your recovery. Contact us today for a free case review.