Uninsured motorist accidents are extremely common in Illinois, which places many drivers at risk for injury. Unfortunately, if and when an accident does happen, many do not really know how – or even if – they may receive compensation. Rest assured that even in an uninsured driver accident, you can (and should) seek compensation for your losses. Our attorneys can help you know how and where to start.

Your Rights and the Uninsured Driver

Most people will tell you not to even bother suing the uninsured motorist because, if they do not have insurance, then it is unlikely they have the money or assets to cover your losses. However, this is not always accurate advice. An experienced automobile accident attorney is the only one who can truly advise you on whether or not suing an uninsured motorist will be worth your time.

Regardless, always ensure that you gather as much information about the other driver as possible. The most critical information to gather is their name, phone number, address, license plate number. Of course, a large number of uninsured driver accidents are hit-and-runs. If this applies to your situation, try to at least get information on the model, make, and color of their car and a license plate number. Anything you can remember may be helpful in pursuing your case.

Your Rights and Your Insurance Company

When efforts to track down an uninsured hit-and-run motorist fail, or when the other driver has no assets to cover the damages, most uninsured motorist victims turn to their own insurance companies for compensation. Unfortunately, many sell themselves short because they mistakenly assume they do not need an attorney when filing against their own company. Do not be fooled: your insurance company does not have your best interest in mind any more than the driver who hit you did.

Insurance companies, who are in business to make money, will try to give you the least amount of compensation possible. They may try to deny certain parts of your claim, such as lost wages or pain and suffering. In extreme situations, they may even try to completely deny your claim. An aggressive attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve, but you must take immediate action. Most policies have a relatively small window for filing a claim.

Let Us Help You

At Walsh, Knippen & Cetina, Chartered, we understand the importance of full and fair compensation. With many decades of combined experience, our DuPage County car accident attorneys have the knowledge and resources to effectively represent your best interest and aggressively protect your rights. Whether you are filing against the other driver or your own insurance carrier, our attorneys can help. Call us at 630-462-1980 and schedule your free initial consultation to learn more.

Sources:

http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303281504579221972801700610

http://www.dmv.org/insurance/uninsured-motorist-coverage.php

http://wvrecord.com/stories/510933150-woman-says-insurer-not-paying-enough