Will My Damages Be Covered If I Was Hit By an Uninsured Driver?

Being involved in a car accident and suffering injuries can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. This can be especially heightened when you are hit by an uninsured driver. You may be concerned about how you will receive compensation to help cover medical treatment, property damage, and pain and suffering. You may also want to know who is liable to pay for these damages.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys discuss uninsured motorist coverage and how to file a claim for damages caused by an uninsured driver. A consultation with our firm is 100 percent complimentary.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Maryland

Car insurance policies in Maryland must include uninsured motor coverage, however, any driver has the right to waive this coverage when he or she purchases a policy.

Any uninsured motorist coverage must be equal to the amount of liability coverage required. The minimum amount of liability insurance includes:

• $30,000 per person for bodily damage
• $60,000 per accident for bodily damage
• $15,000 for property damage

If the other driver caused the accident, his or her insurance company is responsible for paying claims filed by accident victims, up to the policy limits.

However, when an at-fault driver has no insurance coverage to pay for your damages, you could file a claim against your own uninsured motorist coverage. You would need to show that the uninsured driver was at-fault for the crash and your resulting injuries.

Although auto insurance is mandatory, it does not mean that all Maryland drivers carry it. This is why it is important to consider purchasing additional protection in the event of an accident.

When Should You Use Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

It is best to use your own uninsured motorist coverage if you are in a collision with an uninsured driver, an underinsured driver whose liability insurance does not cover all of your damages, or in a crash where the driver of the other vehicle flees the scene and cannot be found (i.e. hit-and-run accidents).

This coverage not only protects motorists hit by uninsured drivers, but also pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists. However, the limits associated with having minimal coverage can quickly be exhausted in collisions that involve serious, more life-threatening injuries. An experienced lawyer will be able to help in these situations by reviewing your insurance coverage policy limits and that of the at-fault driver.

How to Report an Uninsured Driver

To report an uninsured driver, you could file a complaint with the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). You have the option to send in a written letter of the compliant or fill out a complaint form. The MVA will review your complaint and then make a decision on whether or not legal action will be taken against the uninsured driver.

If the uninsured driver is unable to provide proof of insurance coverage, the MVA has the ability to suspend his or her vehicle registration, issue stiff penalties, or take other necessary actions.

Our Lawyers Are Available to Take Your Call

If you have been hit by a driver with no insurance, we recommend seeking legal representation as soon as possible to protect your rights and best interests. You may be eligible to pursue compensation for your medical bills, damage to property, and for physical and/or mental pain and suffering experienced.

At The Law Offices of Peter T. Nicholl, our consultations are free with no obligation to move forward. You pay us nothing up front unless we are successful in helping you obtain compensation for your damages.

Call our lawyers to learn more at 410-244-7005.