What To Do After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Louisiana

After a car accident, it’s not uncommon to question, “What happens if I get hit by an uninsured driver?” Accident victims typically have the option to file an insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider to get compensation. However, if the responsible driver lacks insurance coverage, victims are left with the burden of personally covering the costs themselves.

This situation can cause physical pain and mental trauma. It can also lead to substantial financial burdens, including thousands of dollars in medical bills, lost wages, and various other costs.The good news is that a skilled car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance. They have the expertise to: navigate the legal complexities, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. With their guidance, you can have peace of mind knowing that someone is advocating for your rights and working towards easing the financial burdens caused by the accident.

What to Know About Louisiana Required Auto Insurance

Under Louisiana law, all motorists are required to carry at least minimum liability coverage to cover damages in case of an accident. The minimum coverage requirements include the following:

• $15,000 bodily injury and death liability coverage per person
• $30,000 bodily injury and death liability coverage per accident
• $25,000 property damage liability coverage

Failing to carry automotive insurance that covers at least these damages breaks Louisiana state law. The penalties for failing to comply include

• Fines between $500 and $1,000 if the driver knowingly operated a car without insurance
• Suspense or revocation of their driver’s license
• Impounding their car

Even with these penalties, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that at least 14% of Louisiana drivers do not have a lawful insurance policy. If you’re in an accident with one of these uninsured drivers, you could be on the hook for your own repairs and damages unless you purchase uninsured motorist (UM) insurance.

What To Do After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Louisiana: UM Insurance Info

While Louisiana does not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist insurance, UM coverage can help pay for your damages in the case that the other driver doesn’t carry insurance themselves. UM insurance “kicks in” if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, and will cover your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and others, up to your policy limit.

If you don’t carry uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll be on the hook for your losses unless you hire a Louisiana personal injury lawyer to help you take legal action against the other driver. The trustworthy car accident lawyers with Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys have the experience and drive it takes to win your case.

Step-by-Step: What Happens if I Get Hit By an Uninsured Driver?

After an accident, if possible, take the following steps to ensure your safety and the safety of others at the scene, as well as the integrity of your future claim:

• Call 911. First responders and police who arrive at the scene will treat your injuries and generate reports that can serve as evidence in your case.
• Collect the other drivers’ information, including their name, contact information, and insurance information. Also, collect the names and phone numbers of any witnesses at the scene.
• Take photographs of the scene from multiple angles, as well as your injuries, your passengers’ injuries, and any damage to the car. Be sure to capture details like tire marks that can indicate the direction and velocity of the cars prior to the wreck.
• Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Do not accept any preliminary settlement offers they may make.
• Do not talk to the other drivers beyond getting their information, and do not apologize in any way.

After being injured in an accident with an uninsured driver, there are a number of steps to take to ensure your claim is heard. Your insurance company will investigate your claim before paying it, and the following can serve as helpful evidence of the extent of your damages in that investigation and others:

• Seeing a doctor, even if you think you’re uninjured. Some injuries don’t present symptoms for hours or even days after an accident. A doctor will be able to diagnose and treat your injuries, plus they’ll provide documentation as proof of your injuries for insurance or the court.
• Attending all follow-up appointments is vital to proving your injuries in any accident case: failure to do so can be argued as evidence that your injuries weren’t as serious as you claim.
• Keep meticulous records of all your expenses in order to prove your losses. These include your medical expenses, the wages and benefits you’ve lost, and other costs you incur as a result of your injuries.
• Keep a healing journal to document the impact your injuries have on your daily life, including your physical pain and mental struggles. Include pictures.
• Talk to an experienced Louisiana car accident lawyer to ensure you receive the highest compensation you deserve. We’ll fight for your interests and advocate on your behalf.

Hit By an Uninsured Driver? Call Gordon McKernan Today

If you’ve been injured in a traffic accident with an uninsured driver, you could be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering. A skilled lawyer with Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys will guide you through your case, from discovery all the way to the final arguments, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

What to do after being hit by an uninsured driver in Louisiana? Give us a call today at 888.716.2572 for a free consultation on your case. A dedicated lawyer at our firm will listen to your story, provide advice, and get started on your claim right away.