All drivers are required by state laws to maintain the proper auto insurance coverage. Sometimes the state minimum insurance coverage isn’t enough to cover the damages sustained in a car crash. If you have been sideswiped by a driver who has insurance coverage, but just not enough coverage to cover the costs of all your damages.
As an example, if a driver has coverage that is 50/25/15 that means that it will pay out a maximum of $50,000 per accident, $25,000 per person for medical expenses, and no more than $15,000 for property damage per accident.
What To Do After Being Sideswiped By An Underinsured Motorist
When you purchase your auto insurance protection, you need to make sure you get uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This is insurance coverage that will help you cover the costs of damages should you be hit by a driver without insurance or who doesn’t have enough coverage to take care of your damages. When you are hit by an underinsured motorist, then you will file a claim with your auto insurance which will then kick in and pay from your underinsured motorist coverage to take care of your losses.
Being Sideswiped By Another Driver
Sideswipe crashes are actually rather common. They occur when vehicles are merging, changing lanes, or just get too close and cross the line and strike your vehicle. If you have been sideswiped, stay on the accident scene and be sure to call the police. An accident report is a necessity.
The officer will come out to the crash scene, conduct a preliminary investigation, prepare an accident report, and most likely determine fault for the crash. You will need this accident report when you pursue a personal injury claim for the damages that you suffer after being sideswiped by an underinsured motorist. If possible, get photos of the accident scene with your smartphone.
Here are some common damages that you might suffer after being sideswiped by an uninsured motorist:
• Past and future medical bills
• Past and future lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damages
• Mental anguish
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
Your personal injury attorney will review the details of your claim and determine which damages you can claim after your crash. Ensuring you have maintained supporting documentation and evidence for your claim is imperative to the outcome of your settlement.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have suffered damages after being sideswiped by an underinsured motorist, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer who handles such auto accident injury cases in your state. With the help of a lawyer, you are much more likely to recoup compensation for your damages.
Also, filing an additional claim with your underinsured motorist coverage can be tricky, so you will want to enlist the help of an experienced negotiator to ensure you are treated fairly. Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have no upfront costs and nothing to lose.
