Claims Involving Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists

Financial Recovery With Uninsured Or Underinsured Motorists

If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, it may still be possible to recover financial damages. However, the process may be complicated, and legal guidance can be beneficial.

1. If the At-Fault Party Has Significant Assets: In case of substantial injuries and if the at-fault party has considerable assets, pursuing the case may be beneficial. Their lack of insurance doesn’t negate their liability for your injuries. You could potentially take the case to trial, earn a judgment against them, and then use this judgment to claim their assets. This method may be complex, but it’s an effective negotiation tool when the party has insufficient insurance but sizable assets.
2. If the At-Fault Party Lacks Insurance and Assets: If you have underinsured motorist coverage and you’re involved in an automobile accident, your insurance company can cover your damages. This type of coverage is beneficial when the at-fault party has no insurance or if your damages exceed their liability policy limit. However, obtaining a settlement via underinsured motorist coverage can be challenging, and insurance companies often dispute such claims. Therefore, the assistance of an experienced attorney can be vital in pursuing your claim effectively.

Notifying Your Insurance Company After An Auto Accident in Washington State

While it might not be legally required, reporting the accident to your insurance company is crucial for several reasons:

1. Vehicle Damage: If your vehicle has been damaged and the at-fault party’s insurance company is not responsive or refuses to pay for repairs, your insurance company is still obligated to repair your vehicle under your policy.
2. Personal Injury Protection (PIP): If you have PIP benefits to cover medical treatment, it’s important to contact your insurance company promptly so that they can begin paying for your medical treatment.
3. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault party was uninsured or underinsured, you need to discuss your case with your insurance company to process your claim for either property damage or injury.

Remember that while making a claim, your insurance company has the right to ask questions about the incident to investigate. However, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney who can manage these conversations on your behalf, providing necessary information to the insurance company without jeopardizing your settlement amount or risking coverage denial.

For more information on Claims Involving Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (253) 339-8500 today.