20 Sep What Happens if You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver?
Regardless of their severity, car accidents are stressful enough—add an uninsured driver to the mix, and it can be a nightmare. That’s because, if you are hit by a driver without motor coverage, you may not be able to recover the compensation you are rightfully owed. Understanding your options and Arizona’s insurance requirements can help you prepare for the unexpected, and at National Auto Collision Centers, we’re here to help. Let’s explore what can happen if you are hit by an uninsured driver and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
Arizona’s Car Insurance Requirements
Arizona law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum level of liability insurance. In the event of an accident, this ensures that the driver will be able to pay for vehicle damage and injuries they may cause. This mandatory coverage includes:
- $25,000.00 in coverage for bodily injury per person: This amount covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs if you cause injury to another person in an accident.
- $50,000.00 for total bodily injuries if more than one person is involved: This coverage extends to multiple individuals injured in an accident, with the maximum payout capped at $50,000.00.
- $15,000.00 for property damage: This coverage helps pay for the repair or replacement of the other party’s vehicle or property damaged in an accident you caused.
These minimums are designed to provide a basic level of financial protection in the event of an accident. However, not all drivers comply with this law, and some may be driving without any insurance at all. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, it can be challenging to recover the costs of your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
What to Do if You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver
1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself against uninsured drivers is to purchase uninsured motorist coverage as part of your auto insurance policy. This coverage is designed to step in and cover your expenses if you’re hit by a driver without insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even vehicle repairs.
2. MedPay and Collision Coverage
MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage) and collision coverage are additional options that can help cover the costs of an accident with an uninsured driver. MedPay helps cover your medical bills, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Collision coverage, on the other hand, helps pay for repairs to your vehicle, no matter who caused the accident.
3. Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, another option is to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Through a lawsuit, you can seek compensation for your medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost wages, and other losses. However, this process can be time-consuming and expensive, and there’s no guarantee that the uninsured driver will have the financial resources to pay a judgment.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. They can guide you through the claims process and help you explore your options for coverage. Your insurance company may also pursue legal action against the uninsured driver to recover costs.
Contact National Auto Collision Centers for Auto Repair in Tucson Today
If your vehicle has been hit by an uninsured driver, our team of auto repair technicians at National Auto Collision Centers can help. Contact our Valencia Rd. location (520) 889-2536 today to schedule your repair service!