Having a car accident can be a concerning and irritating experience. If you are a victim of such an accident and the at-fault driver lacks the insurance coverage to reimburse you for your damages and injuries to the full amount, then a skilled car accident lawyer can assist you in how to go about filing an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim. A car accident lawyer in our team can lead you through the legal process. We will also decide the insurance coverage that you possess and take care of the insurance company on your behalf. We will assist you in obtaining the compensation that belongs to you and safeguard your rights.
What is UM and UIM Insurance Claim?
Uninsured Motorist coverage (UM) or Underinsured Motorist coverage (UIM) is insurance to compensate injured parties in case of an uninsured at-fault driver, or low insurance to compensate for damages. See UM and UIM insurance coverage:
- Coverage: You are protected if the at-fault driver is uninsured. Your UM coverage will compensate for damages.
- UIM Coverage: The UIM coverage kicks in when the insurance of the driver-at-fault driver is not enough to pay you for the complete extent of your injuries or damages. The UIM would be capable of paying you for those deficits in that respect.
UM and UIM coverages are not mandatory throughout the entire United States. The statutorily required law, as well as the administratively required regulation for these coverages, will vary, too.
Some examples where the UM/UIM claim would become effective are:
- Hit and Run: If you are not identified and you leave the scene, you can get compensation for damages from your UM policy.
- No insurance: Your UM coverage will protect you if the at-fault driver is not insured.
- Insufficient Coverage: If you have UIM, it can be used as an add-on for your policy in case the insurance policy is insufficient.
Why Is UM/UIM Coverage Important?
UM/UIM insurance saves you from paying the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver is under- or uninsured. Without UM/UIM insurance, you are forced to pay the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
The following are the benefits of UM/UIM insurance:
- Medical Expenses: UM/UIM coverage will cover all your medical expenses, such as emergency room care, surgery, rehabilitation, and extended care.
- Lost Wages for Lack of Earned Income: In case you get disabled and can no longer work as a result of an accident, your lost wages and future earnings capacity may be covered by UM/UIM insurance.
- Protection When the Other Driver Is Unable to Pay: When you get hurt by the other driver but he/she is unable to pay, UM/UIM insurance will ensure that you get paid according to your rights.
- Coverage for other losses: UM/UIM coverage can also cover pain and suffering, property loss, loss of life, and quality and, upon death, wrongful-death benefits to surviving relatives.
Role of an Auto Accident Lawyer in Your UM/UIM Case
Review Your Policy and Coverage
A car accident lawyer will examine your policy carefully to ensure your UM/UIM coverage. Your rights will be explained, and you will be told what your policy does cover. We will also compute all the coverages to which you are entitled, and, if so permitted by law, stacking policies. The attorney will make sure that you understand fully the confusing language of your policy and that you receive the largest payout. We will also find coverage that had been missed, including coverage for other vehicles or policies.
Find the Fault and Build a Strong Case
An experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer will carefully review the crash to determine fault and responsibility. In helping your case, we will collect medical records, police reports, and witness accounts. If need be, we can work with accident reconstructionist to strengthen your case. We will also examine all available video footage, like dashcam or surveillance, which can reflect on what happened leading up to the accident. He leaves no stone unturned and builds a good case to receive as much compensation as possible.
Negotiate with the Insurance Company
A car accident attorney will make your case to the insurer for you. They will battle any attempt to deny, delay, or downsize your claim. They will use their knowledge of the law and their track record of success to negotiate with the insurer on your behalf and get you fair compensation for your damages and injuries.
Calculate Full and Fair Compensation
Your future and present medical expenses, lost wages, suffering and pain, and other damages will be determined by an automobile accident attorney. An automobile accident attorney analyzes your damages—including lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future costs. Your automobile accident attorney interviews financial and medical experts to strengthen your claim and ensure no one overlooks or underestimates your damages.
File a Lawsuit If Necessary
A car accident attorney will file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to accept a fair settlement. We will take your case to court using expert witness testimony and credible proof. Will be punctual for every deadline and follow the rules of procedure. This can ease the pressure and let you focus on recovery.
Bottom Line!
It may be difficult to make an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim. In case the at-fault party’s insurer is not available, you are entitled to complete compensation for damage or injury. You may protect your rights by seeking the services of a car accident lawyer. We will handle you in court and sue, if need be. You can heal in peace while a car accident attorney processes your claim.
Call a St. Petersburg, FL injury attorney at Jenkins Law PL today if you are in a position where you must file a UM/UIM claim. We will walk you through all of the forms and ensure your right to compensation.
