Auto accidents and other unfortunate events happen on Florida roads and streets. Sometimes, accidents may cause significant property damage or injury. Sadly, some accidents cause fatalities. When negligence plays a role in a crash, the injured party could file a claim against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy. Problems may arise when the driver has little or no liability coverage. Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage could provide a financial solution if the other driver has such coverage.
When a person drives without insurance, there is no liability coverage in place to file a claim. Personally suing the at-fault driver becomes an option. However, if the individual does not have any assets, a lawsuit won’t likely recover any financial assets. If a driver carries uninsured motorist coverage, he or she could file a claim against his or her insurance company. The coverage extends to the limits of the policy. When the maximum coverage amount is $100,000, the insurance company is only obligated to pay out that amount.
Underinsured motorist coverage addresses claims when the at-fault driver carries the minimal amount. When someone has only the state minimum in coverage, filing an uninsured motorist coverage claim becomes necessary to procure more funds to cover possible losses.
The person purchasing uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, be it for an owner or non-owner policy, does need to select appropriate limits. Purchasing $300,000 in coverage may be preferable to buying $100,000 for some drivers or owners. Reviewing options for coverage with a broker may be advisable.
Drivers could look at DMV or MVA statistics about uninsured or underinsured drivers. Doing so may motivate someone to increase his or her insurance coverage levels.
Persons filing claims with an insurance company may run into trouble. An insurance company may deny the claim, which may lead to the insured filing a lawsuit against the provider.
With personal injury claims, it may be necessary to work with an attorney who could assist in filing a claim. A lawyer may also advise someone about potential litigation.