Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and traumatic experience. It can be even more frustrating when you find out that the other driver is uninsured, leaving you to deal with the financial repercussions of the accident. This is where uninsured motorist coverage comes in.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is an insurance policy that safeguards drivers in case they are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver or an unidentifiable one for example, a hit-and-run accident. This insurance policy can assist in covering medical expenses, property damage, and additional expenses that may occur as a result of the accident.
Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
In Canada, uninsured motorist coverage is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Even though it is against the law to drive without insurance, there are still many uninsured drivers on the road.
Without uninsured motorist coverage, you could be left to pay for the damages and injuries out of your own pocket. This can be particularly problematic if you have suffered serious injuries and are unable to work or have to pay for expensive medical treatments.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Cover?
Uninsured motorist coverage typically covers the following:
- Medical expenses: This includes expenses related to medical treatment, hospitalization, and rehabilitation.
- Damaged property: This refers to harm caused to your automobile and any other assets that were affected in the incident.
- Lost wages: If your injuries from the accident prevent you from working, uninsured motorist coverage can assist in compensating for your lost wages.
- Physical and emotional distress: Uninsured motorist coverage may offer compensation for the bodily and psychological anguish that you have gone through because of the accident.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?
If you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you are required to file a claim with your insurance company. Your insurance company will conduct an investigation into the accident and determine if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured. In case the other driver was uninsured, your insurance company will compensate for the damages and injuries up to the limit specified in your uninsured motorist coverage.
It is important to note that uninsured motorist coverage only covers the damages and injuries up to the limit of your policy. If your damages and injuries exceed the limit of your policy, you will be responsible for paying the remaining amount.
Do I Need an Attorney for Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
If you have been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver and are struggling to get compensation from your insurance company, it may be in your best interest to hire an attorney who specializes in uninsured motorist coverage. A legal representative can assist you in maneuvering through the legal system and guaranteeing that you obtain the appropriate compensation.
Additionally, they can engage in negotiations with your insurance company to guarantee that you obtain the maximum amount of compensation achievable. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to minimize the amount of compensation that they offer you. An attorney can help you fight for your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly.
Conclusion
Uninsured motorist coverage in auto insurance is an essential component that can offer financial security to you if you encounter an accident with an uninsured driver. While this coverage is mandatory in most Canadian provinces, it is important to understand the coverage limits and to purchase higher limits if necessary. Additionally, seeking the assistance of an uninsured motorist coverage attorney like RotondoLaw.com can help you navigate the legal complexities surrounding this type of insurance and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.