Most people know the typical routine when they get into any kind of car accident, especially a minor one. After pulling over, you meet the other driver and exchange insurance information. Unfortunately, when one person lacks insurance, this simple routine can completely fall apart.
If the other driver in a car accident does not have coverage or drives off without pulling over, it can feel like you were left holding the bag. The situation is more common than you may think, and there are procedures to handle such a thing. Here are some questions you may have about the process.
Does it matter that the accident was not my fault?
The most recent study of uninsured driver statistics shows that in the state of Louisiana, an approximate 13% of drivers are out on the road without coverage. That is a significant number, and the chances are high that you may have a collision with one of these people.
Louisiana is an at-fault insurance state, so the other driver should be responsible for your damages if he or she caused the accident. This is harder to enforce when the person has no coverage or decides to take off. The latter is not surprising if drivers know they lack insurance and may have to pony up out of pocket.
Will my insurance cover my expenses?
Uninsured motorist coverage is one requirement of Louisiana’s minimum insurance regulations. You likely have it built into your policy without even knowing it. Luckily, your provider should offer you assistance to repair your vehicle if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.
What if my rates go up as a result?
You may feel hesitant to file your claim because you do not want to raise your monthly premium. If the accident was not your fault, the state does not want you left with the consequences. As a result, there is a specific law that prevents your insurance company from increasing your rates under these circumstances.
Do not hesitate to seek out help when in an accident with an uninsured driver. When the situation is not your fault, you should not have to pay the price for someone else’s mistake.
