Most people know that when they get into a car accident, they should pull over and exchange information. So what happens when the other driver has no insurance coverage to speak of? This can be a problem, but it may still be possible to pursue damages and get your medical bills and property damages paid for. Our Westchester County car accident attorneys can advise you about your options and whether it’s worthwhile to file a personal injury lawsuit.
What Should I Do If I Get Hit By Someone With No Insurance?
You should treat this like any other accident. When the other driver has no insurance, you should:
- Pull over somewhere safe
- Get the other driver’s contact information
- Call the police so that they can make a report
- Take pictures of the damaged vehicles and the accident scene
- Talk to any witnesses and get their contact information
Once the police have come and made their report, see a doctor as soon as you can. You may not feel hurt in the immediate aftermath of a crash, but the stress and adrenaline could be masking some pain. Get checked out and get a diagnosis for any injuries.
Should I Sue Someone Who Has No Insurance?
Normally, if you sue for damages after an accident, you are not really suing another driver. You are suing their insurance company. They have liability coverage that is meant to kick in for events like these.
When someone doesn’t have insurance, then you are suing them directly. This can be a bit more difficult because if someone was driving without insurance, it could be because they couldn’t afford it. If they can’t afford insurance, they may not be able to pay you even if you win against them in court.
Is It Worth It to Pursue Damages?
It’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer to determine whether or not pursuing compensation is worthwhile. If your own PIP coverage can help with your injuries and your uninsured motorist coverage can help with the repair costs, it may not even be worth it to file a lawsuit. Remember, you still have to prove negligence and build a convincing case, and that may not be a worthwhile endeavor if the other person cannot pay you.
Our lawyers would be happy to help you if you need assistance dealing with your own insurer though!
How Long Do I Have to Sue?
You do not have an unlimited time to pursue damages after an accident. New York gives victims three years to take legal action. We recommend acting as quickly as possible. If you think that you have a personal injury suit worth pursuing, the quicker you act the better. A fast response can make it easier for a lawyer to gather useful evidence, like eyewitness contact information or surveillance footage of the accident. Plus, the faster you act, the faster you can receive compensation.
Contact Our Law Firm Today
If you have been injured in a car accident and you want to know more about what comes next, contact Hausman & Pendzick. We want to hear more about your case and we want to help you pursue the compensation that you deserve.