There were 1.59 million car accidents that resulted in an injury in 2020, with a further 35,766 fatal accidents out of a total of 5.25 million. Being involved in a car accident is awful, but if you don’t have car insurance when an accident happens, the situation becomes even more complicated. An uninsured driver faces serious consequences like paying extensive out-of-pocket costs and getting points on your license, yet 13% of all drivers on US roads are uninsured, which is around 29 million or one in eight drivers.
https://pixabay.com/photos/verdict-judge-judge-hammer-3667391/
Fortunately, consulting with a car accident attorney can help protect your rights and reduce some of the fallout.
There are a few common reasons why drivers go without car insurance. Some simply can’t afford the monthly premiums, especially if money is tight – the average cost of car insurance in the US is $2,314 per year, which is unaffordable for a lot of drivers. Others underestimate the risk of getting into an accident. Some drivers cancel policies after rates increase. In other cases, a policy may have lapsed due to forgetfulness.
Regardless of the reasons, driving without insurance is illegal in most states. The penalties for an uninsured driver add insult to injury after an accident, with fines ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 as a minimum, plus license suspension and even jail time.
After an accident, insurance companies will investigate fault and liability. If you caused the accident while uninsured, you could face severe financial consequences. Without insurance, you would pay all the costs out-of-pocket, including:
In addition, your license will be suspended for at least a year in most states. You will also have to file an SR-22 certificate and pay higher-risk insurance rates in the future. The out-of-pocket costs could be crushing without legal guidance.
Consulting with a lawyer well-versed in these cases can help in several ways after an uninsured accident. An attorney can potentially help you:
Having experienced legal representation levels the playing field. You have an advocate to protect your rights and best interests every step of the way.
If you find yourself in this scenario, remain calm and consider these steps:
With legal guidance, an uninsured driver can still responsibly handle the aftermath. The right lawyer can make the best of a difficult situation.
You do like your home when it is well-organized and neat, don’t you? We all…
Local businesses play a crucial role in driving sustainable development within their communities. These businesses,…
If you are planning to have a luxury vinyl plank for your flooring, then better…
In today's fast-paced and uncertain economic climate, maintaining financial stability can be a daunting task,…
For many people, the form and functionality of their home's heating system are of paramount…
Unexpected expenses can happen at any moment, and for many of us, it always seems…
This website uses cookies.