When a person is involved in a car accident, it is often a very frustrating and inconvenient experience. If the other driver involved in the crash is uninsured, this can make the process that much more complicated. It is because of this that it is important to know what to do in order to recover the compensation you need for damages if you find yourself in this situation. Continue reading and contact an experienced New York personal injury attorney to learn more.
What Do I Do After the Accident?
After a car accident, the best thing you can do is to remain calm so that you can take care of the situation that is present. There are certain steps that should be implemented during this time to ensure the best outcome for your claim. This includes:
- Contact the police so that a report is made on the accident. If the driver is uninsured, a police report can help the claims process go smoother so that you can receive coverage.
- While uninsured drivers may offer you money to avoid legal action, do not accept it.
- Exchange information with the uninsured driver. While they do not have insurance, you can write down their personal information and vehicle details for a claim.
- Collect important information such as the make of the vehicle, time and location of the accident, and the name/badge number of the officer on the scene.
- Take pictures of the scene including the damages to both vehicles, license plates, traffic signs, and vehicle directions.
Insurance Claims Against Uninsured Drivers
When contacting an insurance company, it is important to tell them the accident was with an uninsured driver. In addition to this, have the following information ready:
- Your insurance card for your policy number
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- A detailed report of how the accident happened, which is where your notes on the accident go to use.
- When the representative asks for the other driver’s insurance information, you can give them the driver’s contact information.
- The name of the police department along with the report number
Filing a Lawsuit
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning insurance providers will pay damages up to a limit. This is regardless of who caused the accident. This can make it difficult to file a lawsuit against the uninsured driver, as there can be certain restrictions. However, it may be possible if you suffered serious injuries or incurred a great deal of medical bills. The best course of action in these situations is to report the accident to your insurance company and contact an attorney to discover your legal options.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. We understand the implications of a serious accident, which is why we take pride in tenaciously representing our clients. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
