When you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, the aftermath can be overwhelming and costly. You’re asking yourself, “How much can I get from an uninsured motorist claim?” The answer depends on your insurance policy, the extent of your damages, and state laws. Knowing these factors is key to getting what you deserve.
Working with an Atlanta car accident attorney can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of your claim and making sure your rights are protected and you get the most money possible. In this blog we’ll go over the ins and outs of an uninsured motorist claim, how much you can recover, and what you should do to protect your pocketbook.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is the auto insurance that covers you if you get into an accident with an uninsured driver. If you get hit by an uninsured driver, this coverage makes sure you get paid for your injuries and damages. UM coverage is a financial safety net that kicks in when the at-fault driver doesn’t have the required insurance.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works
When you get into an accident and the other driver is uninsured, your uninsured motorist coverage will cover your medical bills, lost wages, and in some cases your vehicle damage. This type of coverage is part of your auto policy and kicks in when it’s determined the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your losses. By having UM coverage you’re insuring yourself against the irresponsible drivers on the road.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage is Important
Having uninsured motorist coverage is important because it gives you peace of mind and financial protection. Although state laws require drivers to have insurance, many still drive without it. If you get into an accident with an uninsured driver and don’t have UM coverage you may have to pay all your expenses out of pocket. This coverage makes sure you’re not financially ruined by someone else’s irresponsibility.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage vs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Note the difference between uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage. UM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance, and underinsured motorist coverage applies when the other driver has insurance but the policy limits are not enough to cover all your damages. Both types of coverage are often bundled together and give you a total shield against drivers who are either uninsured or underinsured.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Georgia?
In Georgia, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not required but highly recommended. While the state requires all drivers to have a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover damages they may cause to others, it doesn’t require drivers to have UM coverage. So while you must have insurance to cover other people’s injuries and property damage, you don’t have to have insurance to cover yourself against uninsured drivers.
Why You Should Get Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Although not required by law, uninsured motorist coverage is an extra layer of protection on your auto policy. In Georgia many drivers are either uninsured or underinsured meaning they don’t have enough coverage to pay for damages they may cause in an accident. If you get hit by one of these drivers and don’t have UM coverage you may have to pay out of pocket for your medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage is Good For You
Uninsured motorist coverage gives you a financial safety net by ensuring you’re protected when the at-fault driver can’t cover your losses. This coverage includes medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the accident. In some cases, it can also cover your vehicle damage. By adding UM to your policy you’re insuring yourself against a big financial hit.
What Affects Your UM Claim Amount
The amount you get from an uninsured motorist (UM) claim in Georgia depends on several factors. Knowing these factors will help you navigate the claims process and get fair compensation for your damages. Here are the main elements that affect your UM claim amount.
Policy Limits
One of the biggest factors that affect your UM claim is the policy limits you choose. Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a claim. In Georgia, you can choose UM coverage up to the same amount as your liability coverage. If your policy has low limits your compensation will be capped at those amounts no matter how much your injuries or damages are.
Degree of Injuries and Damages
The degree of your injuries and property damage also affects the payout of a UM claim. More severe injuries that require more medical treatment, rehab, or time off work will increase the amount you’re entitled to. More property damage like a totaled vehicle will get you a bigger claim than minor repairs.
Evidence and Documentation
The quality and quantity of evidence and documentation you have will greatly impact the success and value of your UM claim. Detailed records like medical bills, repair estimates, photos of the accident scene, and witness statements will help substantiate your claim and show the extent of your damages. The more documentation you have the stronger your case will be when negotiating with your insurance company.
State Laws and Policies
Georgia state laws and your policy also affect your UM claim amount. For example, Georgia allows drivers to reject UM coverage in writing, but if you choose UM the rules and regulations are governed by state law. Georgia also has “add-on” and “reduced” UM coverage which affects how your coverage works with the at-fault driver’s insurance if any. Knowing these subtleties will help you get the most out of your claim.
Negotiation and Lawyer
Last of all the negotiation process and if you have a lawyer can affect the amount you get from a UM claim. Insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible so having an experienced lawyer will help you get a fair settlement. A lawyer will advocate for you, negotiate for you and if necessary take your case to court to get you the compensation you deserve.
Meet with an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer ASAP!
If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured motorist, don’t leave your financial future to chance. Understanding your rights and taking the right steps can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need. Contact Buddoo & Associates to speak with an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call us at 404-870-3557 for a free consultation today!
