If the other driver’s insurance company offers a settlement after a car accident, approach the situation with caution and due diligence. These initial offers are often lower than what’s fair or adequate to cover all the damages and future implications of your injury. Before engaging in negotiations, we advise you to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Your lawyer can assess circumstances of your injuries, property damage, lost wages, and any long-term impacts to ensure that the proposed settlement truly compensates for your total losses. Moreover, discussing your case or signing any documentation without legal counsel could inadvertently undermine your claim. Remember, insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, so having an attorney guide you will ensure you’re making informed decisions that safeguard your best interests.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverages are critical components of an auto insurance policy designed to protect drivers in situations where the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.

UM coverage kicks in when you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have any insurance or in hit-and-run scenarios. It covers your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, essentially stepping in as the at-fault party’s insurance would have if they had been insured.

UIM coverage, on the other hand, becomes relevant when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are insufficient to cover all your incurred expenses and damages. After exhausting the at-fault driver’s policy limits, your UIM coverage will cover the remaining costs up to your policy’s UIM limits.

Both UM and UIM coverages ensure that you’re not left with significant out-of-pocket expenses due to another driver’s lack of adequate coverage or irresponsibility.

Typically, at the scene of an accident, drivers exchange insurance information. If the other driver is unable or unwilling to provide valid insurance details, it may be an indicator they are uninsured. In situations where the other driver’s insurance seems valid but offers limited coverage, your own insurance company or your attorney can help ascertain the full details of their policy after a claim is filed. Law enforcement officers at the scene can run a quick check and provide some insights about the other driver’s insurance status.

The most definitive way to determine if someone is underinsured or uninsured is through the claims process, where insurance companies investigate and confirm the other party’s coverage limits and status. If you’re unsure or have doubts, consulting with a local attorney experienced in motor vehicle accidents can provide clarity.