Few experiences can match the stress of a serious car accident. In addition to the initial pain, some victims require weeks or months to recover from injuries. The medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can cost a veritable fortune.
Although Louisiana has minimum insurance requirements, some drivers do not carry liability coverage. When they cause accidents, it can be difficult for victims to recover the compensation they need to pay for their damages.
If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, then you may be able to make a claim against your own insurance company via your uninsured motorist coverage. When deciding whether to purchase UIM coverage, it is important to separate the facts from fiction. Common misconceptions about these policies include:
- Uninsured motorist coverage is expensive;
- Health insurance makes UIM coverage pointless;
- You can rely on the other driver’s insurance to pay your damages;
- And if you do not have UIM coverage, there is nothing you can do after a crash with an uninsured motorist.
If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Louisiana, contact a Baton Rouge injury lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC. We will evaluate your case and explain your options for recovering compensation.
Here are the truths behind four common misconceptions about UIM coverage:
Misconception 1: Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Expensive
Car insurance can be expensive, but it is important to consider the benefits of purchasing additional coverage. If you are in an accident with a motorist who does not have insurance, the money that you save by not purchasing UIM insurance may be insignificant. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, UIM is not mandatory in the state of Louisiana, but it can help you avoid overwhelming debt if you are injured by an uninsured driver.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Misconception 2: Health Insurance Makes UIM Coverage Pointless
Many drivers think that having comprehensive health insurance makes UIM coverage pointless. Although your health insurance may pay for medical treatment, it will not cover other damages such as lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Misconception 3: You Can Rely on the Other Driver’s Insurance to Pay Your Damages
In an ideal situation, the at-fault driver’s insurance would pay your damages, but this is not always the case. If the driver has insufficient insurance and does not have the finances or assets to cover the difference, then you may have to pay a portion of your damages out of your own pocket.
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Misconception 4: If You do Not Have UIM Coverage, There Is Nothing You Can Do After a Crash with an Uninsured Motorist
If you are in an accident with an uninsured motorist, you may have several options to recover compensation. In addition to making a claim against your own insurer via your UIM policy, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
However, this can be a legally complex process. An auto accident attorney can help you determine if the liable person has the assets or finances to justify a lawsuit.
If you were injured in a crash that another driver caused, contact a Baton Rouge auto accident attorney from Morris Bart, LLC. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
