If you’ve been hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you still have options for compensation. Your insurance might offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, effective even in hit-and-run cases. Additionally, you can pursue claims against third parties or file lawsuits against the driver responsible.
As your South Fulton uninsured and underinsured motorist accident attorneys, we are committed to exploring every option. Leveraging our sharp legal knowledge and extensive experience—we know how to fight, and we know how to win.
With a meticulous approach and a focus on your recovery, our South Fulton car accident lawyers are determined to help you, both financially and medically. Reach out to us for a complimentary, no-obligation evaluation of your case.
Why You Need an Attorney by Your Side
Being hit by a driver who admits, “I don’t have insurance,” can intensify an already stressful car accident. However, there is still hope for recovery. Our skilled team of South Fulton personal injury lawyers stands ready to pursue every possible compensation avenue for you. We know how to handle uninsured drivers.
As your underinsured and uninsured motorist accident lawyers in South Fulton, GA, we can file a claim under your UM/UIM policy and explore other legal options available to you. We know your rights and what you’re entitled to fight for.
Regardless of your circumstances, our knowledgeable guidance during a free, confidential case review can be invaluable. Our team will help you understand your rights and the best strategies for securing the compensation necessary to heal and move forward.
With a Startling Number of Uninsured Drivers in the U.S., You Require an Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer
Every state mandates some form of insurance or financial responsibility, yet millions still drive uninsured every year. This reckless behavior not only exposes these drivers to legal action but also jeopardizes the financial security of anyone they might injure, leaving victims struggling with unpaid medical bills and other losses.
A 2021 Insurance Research Council (IRC) study revealed that 12.6% of drivers were uninsured in 2019—that’s one in eight! States like Mississippi, Michigan, and Tennessee reported even higher rates.
In states requiring liability coverage for bodily injury, like Georgia, drivers must carry:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability (BIL) per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability per accident
Despite these requirements, 12.4% of Georgia drivers are uninsured. If you’re injured by one of these drivers, you face significant financial risks.
Consulting with an uninsured/underinsured motorist lawyer can help you explore legal options and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is essential when you’re involved in an accident with a driver lacking liability insurance. As an uninsured motorist accident attorney in South Fulton, GA, we can help you understand how this coverage works to protect you:
- Coverage details: Your UM policy kicks in to cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance.
- Coverage limits: Similar to liability insurance, UM coverage offers a specific amount per person and caps the total damages per accident, which is important if passengers are also injured.
- Coverage for non-drivers: UM benefits extend to you even if you were a pedestrian or bicyclist at the time of the accident.
If you find yourself impacted by an uninsured driver, it’s important to consult with a South Fulton uninsured and underinsured motorist accident lawyer to explore your options and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Understanding Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is essential when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages.
Non-Stacking UIM Coverage
Non-stacking UIM policies follow a “traditional” model, where your UIM coverage is reduced by any payment from the at-fault driver’s insurance. Known also as “reduction” or “offset” coverage, it adjusts based on what the other driver’s insurance already covers.
For instance, if you have $50,000 in UIM coverage and the other driver has $25,000 in coverage, you can only claim up to an additional $25,000. But, if their coverage matches or exceeds your UIM limit, you won’t receive additional UIM benefits, regardless of remaining unpaid damages.
Stacking UIM Coverage
Stacking UIM coverage acts as an “add-on” or “excess” liability policy. This option is viable when all other insurance options are exhausted, and you still face unpaid costs.
For example, if both you and the at-fault driver have $50,000 in coverage, stacking allows you to combine these for a total of $100,000 in potential benefits to cover your damages.
Understanding these distinctions helps ensure you’re prepared to advocate effectively for the coverage you need after an accident.
If you’re dealing with insurance shortfalls, connecting with an underinsured motorist accident lawyer in South Fulton, GA, can help you maximize your compensation.
Options if You Don’t Have UM or UIM Coverage
While twenty-two states mandate some form of uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, not every driver has this protection. If you find yourself without UM/UIM coverage after an accident, remain calm.
There are still several strategies to explore, often with the guidance of an uninsured motorist accident attorney.
- Medical payments coverage: Utilize any MedPay or self-insurance coverage you have to cover medical expenses.
- Third-party liability: Look for liability coverage from other involved parties, such as another driver or even a vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the accident.
- Personal injury lawsuit: Consider filing a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver to recover damages.
- Leverage existing policies: Maximize any standard liability or excess “umbrella” insurance policies that might apply.
Each car accident case is unique, especially when it involves uninsured or underinsured drivers. Consulting with an experienced uninsured motorist accident attorney can help you identify all available options and choose the most effective course of action.
Seek Guidance From Skilled South Fulton Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Accident Lawyers
If you’re injured and uncertain about your next steps following an accident, reach out to us. Our South Fulton car accident lawyers bring the dedication, tenacity, and proven success record necessary to help guide your recovery and restore normalcy to your life.
Our commitment to you includes offering our legal services with no up-front fees. You will only pay us if we successfully secure a settlement or court award on your behalf.
Let our experienced South Fulton uninsured and underinsured motorist accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
