Uninsured Motorists Claims Attorneys
Though Florida is a no-fault state, when you’re in a car accident that involves an uninsured motorist, the situation can feel even more overwhelming. Your insurance policy may cover part of the expenses and damages from the accident but not everything.
Insurance coverage against uninsured motorists (UM) is optional for drivers in Florida but mandatory for insurance companies to offer. It can be purchased along with state-mandated auto insurance. Although it doesn’t pay for the repairs to a vehicle, it covers injury-related expenses from the accident, such as:
- Medical bills;
- Lost wages and disability;
- Wheelchairs and medical devices; and
- Long-term nursing care.
Regardless of whether you have confirmation that the other driver is uninsured, if you have reason to believe so, notify the insurance company that you’ll be filing a claim for uninsured motorist coverage. Many policies have a strict deadline on when these claims can be filed, so the sooner you do it, the better. If you need help filing an uninsured motorist claim, contact the Orlando insurance lawyers with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. We understand the complexities of insurance liability, particularly when a claim involves an uninsured motorist.
Uninsured Motorists In Florida
Insurance dispute law firms such as the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. have seen firsthand how important it is for motorists to protect themselves with proper auto insurance coverage in Florida. In 2015, Florida had the highest percentage of uninsured motorists in the nation with 26.7 percent, according to the Insurance Research Council. That’s more than double the national average of 13 percent. Florida drivers are required to carry a minimum auto insurance coverage of $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) insurance. Across the country, $28 billion of automobile damage are unpaid each year due to uninsured motorists.
What To Do After An Accident With An Uninsured Motorist
Following an accident with an uninsured motorist, the steps are generally the same as with any car accident. Yet, it’s not out of the ordinary for an insurance company to deny a claim regarding an accident with an uninsured motorist, even if you have an up-to-date policy with coverage. In that case, contact an insurance dispute attorney with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. to fight the denial.
Contact The Police
Although it’s always a good idea to call the police after a car accident, it’s even more necessary when an uninsured motorist is involved. Police reports are official proof that the accident occurred and frequently help when filing insurance claims afterward.
Also, take photos of the accident scene, including details such as skid marks and damage to the vehicles. Even if your insurance company doesn’t ask for them, photos could strongly support your claim.
Exchange Information With The Other Driver
Now is when you might discover that the other driver is uninsured. Still, exchange as much information as possible with the driver and any witnesses. An automobile insurance claims attorney would remind you that any information you can get from the other driver is much better than none when building an insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
The specifics of your car insurance policy and how much damage there is to your vehicle are two things that determine what the insurance company can do. If you have UM coverage on the policy, it may begin to cover medical expenses and lost wages if you miss work after the accident.
Automobile Insurance Claims Attorney
Carrying uninsured motorist coverage is a rational attempt at protecting yourself if you’re involved in a car accident with someone who doesn’t have auto insurance. But if the insurance company denies a claim related to your uninsured motorist coverage, contact the insurance dispute lawyers in Orlando, FL, at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. We know how to take on insurance companies and present thorough evidence for them to overturn the denial. Don’t worry about how you’ll afford the expenses that result from accidents with uninsured motorists. Contact our law firm today!