What You Should Know About Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Getting the compensation you need after someone else causes you to suffer in a car accident is not always easy. It can be even more complex when the at-fault driver lacks car insurance. Although it may be more challenging, it is still not impossible to obtain the funds you deserve.

Here at Gamez Law Firm, we know how hard it can be to get the compensation you need after an accident. While other drivers may not have insurance, you can protect yourself from them with uninsured motorist coverage. Our San Antonio car accident lawyers have spent 40 years helping our clients recover after injuries, and we want to spread the word about what everyone should know about uninsured motorist coverage. We serve clients in Dallas, Laredo, and San Antonio, Texas. Contact us today to discuss your case.

How You Use This Coverage

Insurance is supposed to offer a safety net for ourselves and anyone we may harm in an accident. Unfortunately, some people do not carry car insurance. This lack of coverage means that when they cause an accident, their victims do not have an easy way to collect compensation.

This is where uninsured motorist coverage comes in. This type of insurance is meant for the victim of an accident, and it may be the only chance for you to get compensation after an accident with a driver without insurance.

Thankfully, this insurance is hard to avoid by accident. The law requires insurance companies to offer you this coverage, and they must have you write and sign a rejection letter for this coverage for you to refuse it officially. If they cannot show this letter, you have the minimum limits of uninsured motorist coverage.

Why UM/UIM Coverage Is Critical in San Antonio

In San Antonio, the risk of encountering uninsured or underinsured drivers is alarmingly high. Texas ranks among the top states for uninsured motorists, with approximately 14% of drivers lacking insurance, surpassing the national average of 13%. This issue is particularly acute in urban areas like San Antonio, where economic challenges and rising insurance premiums contribute to the prevalence of uninsured drivers.

The frequency of hit-and-run incidents and accidents involving uninsured drivers in San Antonio underscores the necessity of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. In Bexar County, traffic accidents remain a significant public safety concern, with numerous incidents reported annually. The high incidence of such accidents means that responsible drivers must be proactive in protecting themselves against potential financial fallout.

Without UM/UIM coverage, drivers involved in accidents with uninsured or underinsured motorists may face substantial out-of-pocket expenses. Medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages can quickly accumulate, placing a significant financial burden on victims. UM/UIM coverage serves as a critical safety net, ensuring that drivers are not left financially devastated due to another’s negligence.

Types of Damages Covered by UM/UIM

UM/UIM coverage is designed to compensate for various losses resulting from accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers. This includes medical expenses, which can encompass emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment costs. Additionally, if injuries sustained in the accident prevent a victim from working, UM/UIM coverage can provide compensation for lost wages, helping to alleviate financial stress during recovery.

Beyond tangible expenses, UM/UIM coverage also addresses non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, which account for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident. Property damage, including vehicle repairs or replacement, is also covered, ensuring that victims are not left without transportation. In tragic cases where accidents result in fatalities, UM/UIM coverage can assist with funeral expenses, offering some financial relief to grieving families.

Common Challenges in UM/UIM Claims

Filing a UM/UIM claim is not always straightforward. Policyholders may encounter delays or denials from their own insurance companies, despite having paid premiums for this coverage. Insurers might dispute the value of damages or the extent of coverage, leading to prolonged negotiations and potential financial hardship for claimants.

In some instances, insurance companies may require arbitration or litigation to resolve UM/UIM claims. This process can be time-consuming and complex, often necessitating legal representation to navigate effectively. Policyholders must understand their rights and be prepared to advocate for the compensation they are entitled to under their UM/UIM coverage.

Get An Attorney’s Help For Uninsured Drivers

After a car accident, we strongly recommend having a lawyer on your side to increase your chances of securing the best possible outcome. We can help negotiate for fair compensation, prove to an insurance company you have this coverage, and also file an injury claim against the at-fault driver.

If you are ready to schedule your initial consultation at our San Antonio office, call us at 210-736-4040 or email us here. Now is always the best time to call an attorney after an accident, so act today.

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