Protect Yourself from Uninsured Drivers To Avoid Large Financial Loss

If you are in an accident that was not your fault, you need to seek compensation from the responsible driver. But what happens when the other driver doesn’t have insurance? Unfortunately, this is a problem that can leave you and your family at risk for paying expenses involved in an accident with another driver. It is necessary to protect yourself from uninsured drivers to ensure that you will not suffer financially from an accident.

Purchase Proper Insurance

It is helpful to protect yourself by purchasing uninsured motorist coverage as part of your vehicle insurance policy. Uninsured motorist coverage protects you and your passengers in the event that you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance. While Arizona law requires liability insurance, not all drivers may have coverage or they may be from another jurisdiction. This can mean that you are at risk for an accident where your damages may not be compensated. For this reason, it is best to carry insurance yourself.

Underinsured Motorists

Arizona law requires drivers to carry a minimum of liability insurance. Sometimes, in a serious accident, the driver’s insurance may not cover the medical expenses incurred. Therefore, drivers should also carry underinsured motorist insurance as part of their own policies. This will provide protection for you as well as your passengers should a crash happen with another driver who does not have proper coverage.

MedPay Coverage

In Arizona, insurance companies offer protection called MedPay, also known as MP. The MP coverage is specifically for medical payments for those injured in auto accidents. MedPay insurance will typically cover the costs of medical treatments that are not covered as part of your health insurance policy. It is important to read and understand the coverage offered before purchasing MP. Some companies make payments only after your other insurance coverage is exceeded. Additionally, there are some restrictions on the amount of payment that will be made so it is essential to know about the coverage before you buy it.

After an Accident

If you were in an accident and suffered serious injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. Typically, the insurance company will work to resolve payment for injuries and other damages. However, the situation will be more complicated if the other driver does not have insurance. The law usually requires you to file a claim no later than two years after the accident. It is best to consult with an attorney to assist you with your case.

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding Protect Yourself from Uninsured Drivers, or any other personal injury, please feel free to contact Brian T. Allen at  480.461.5335,  log on to udallshumway.com,  or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.