What If the Other Driver was at Fault but Does Not Have Insurance?

Every driver in Oregon is required by state law to possess currentautomobile insurance, and yet it is estimated that about 10% of motorists on the road areuninsured or grossly underinsured. When one of these drivers are wholly at fault for a dangerous car accident, the ramifications can unfairly fall upon the shoulders of the other people involved. From expensive repair costs to steep medical bills, you might have to rely on your own savings to pay for them if you are hit by an uninsured driver. But there are ways to protect yourself from these unfair consequences.

Most insurance providers offer uninsured motorist coverage for an additional monthly premium. If you are nervous that you might get into a car accident with someone who cannot provide any insurance information, you might want to consider adding this coverage onto your statement. However, these policies are notorious for paying out very little in the wake of a traffic collision. Depending on the extent of the damage, you could be fighting with your insurance company to provide you with a fair settlement, even though you had their uninsured motorist coverage.

In the event that you do not have any uninsured motorist coverage after being in a car accident caused by such a driver, there are still steps you can take to ensure the liability and the costs do not land in your lap. Keep in mind that these steps also apply for hit-and-run accidents, as a driver who does not stop after crashing into you is essentially an uninsured motorist.

1. Call the police: One of the best ways to obtain powerful evidence that benefits your claims is to get a written statement from the police. This is especially true when an uninsured motorist hits you, as their actions are a direct violation of state law.

2. Gather information: Despite the fact that the responsible party doesn’t have any insurance, you should still get as much information from them as possible, including driver’s license info. If possible, you should also be snapping photographs of the scene.

3. Retain an attorney: No matter how you look at it, you are going to be in for an uphill battle after being hit by an uninsured motorist. The best way to pursue financial compensation and recoveries that cover your expenses is to do so with a professional in your corner.

I, Portland Personal Injury Attorney Timothy Grabe, have collected more than35 years of trial experience that focused exclusively onpersonal injury andcar accident cases. In just my last six trials, the clients I have represented have won a collective$1.5 million in successful verdicts that began with offers that averaged at only a tenth of that amount. While the numbers speak for themselves, I would be more than happy to discuss your case and your legal options with you. Allinitial consultations are free and I work on contingency fee basis – you only pay me if I win your case – so you have nothing to lose.Contact me today.