Getting into an accident is stressful, but it’s even worse when the other driver doesn’t have insurance. In the U.S., nearly one in eight drivers is uninsured, meaning thousands of accidents involve drivers without coverage every year.

This article explains what happens when you’re hit by an uninsured driver, your legal rights, and how to protect yourself financially. We’ll discuss Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM), collision insurance, and other ways to ensure you’re not left paying out of pocket. We’ll also cover what to do immediately after an accident with an uninsured driver, how to handle claims, and whether you can take legal action.

If you want to drive with confidence knowing you’re covered, read on to learn the best ways to protect yourself from uninsured drivers.

Full Article: “What Happens If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?”

Introduction

Imagine this: You’re driving home from work when—BAM!—another car slams into you at a red light. You step out, exchange information, and then the bad news comes: the other driver doesn’t have insurance.

What happens now? Who pays for the damage? Will your insurance cover it?

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know when you get into an accident with an uninsured driver and how to protect yourself financially.

How Common Are Uninsured Drivers?

You might think everyone has insurance because it’s required in almost every state. However, around 12.6% of U.S. drivers (1 in 8) don’t have insurance, according to the Insurance Research Council.

Here are the top five states with the highest percentage of uninsured drivers:

  1. Mississippi – 29.4%
  2. Michigan – 25.5%
  3. Tennessee – 23.7%
  4. New Mexico – 21.8%
  5. Washington – 21.7%

This means that in some areas, one in four drivers on the road is uninsured!

Who Pays If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

When the at-fault driver has insurance, their liability coverage pays for damages. But when they don’t, you might be responsible for the costs unless you have the right coverage.

Here are your insurance options in case of an uninsured driver accident:

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Covers your injuries and damages if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough coverage.
Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your car, regardless of who is at fault.
MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage): Covers your medical bills after an accident, regardless of fault.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Available in no-fault states; covers medical expenses and lost wages.

What To Do After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver

If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, follow these steps to protect yourself:

1. Call the Police

Always report the accident. The police report will be essential for insurance claims and legal action.

2. Gather Evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and license plates. Get witness statements if possible.

3. Exchange Information

Even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, get their name, contact details, and vehicle information.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the accident immediately and ask if your uninsured motorist coverage applies.

5. Consider Legal Action

If the uninsured driver caused significant damages, you may need to take them to court. However, many uninsured drivers may not have the financial resources to pay.

Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver?

Yes, you can sue, but collecting compensation can be challenging. If the driver doesn’t have insurance, they may not have enough assets to cover your damages.

Instead, relying on your uninsured motorist coverage is often the best and fastest way to recover costs.

How To Protect Yourself From Uninsured Drivers

Since you can’t control what other drivers do, the best protection is to ensure you have the right coverage.

Here’s what to do:

Add Uninsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage – It’s inexpensive and worth every penny.
Consider Collision Coverage – Helps cover repair costs even if the other driver is uninsured.
Check Your Medical Coverage – MedPay or PIP can help pay medical bills.
Drive Defensively – Stay alert and reduce risks by avoiding distracted drivers.

Final Thoughts

Accidents with uninsured drivers can be frustrating and expensive, but you don’t have to be left paying out of pocket.

By having the right insurance coverage and following the proper steps after an accident, you can protect yourself financially and legally.

Want to make sure you’re fully covered? Contact your insurance provider today to check your policy!