Car accidents are stressful and confusing — and even more so when the at-fault driver lacks insurance. In Savannah, where traffic density is increasing with population growth, the chances of being hit by an uninsured driver car accident Savannah are unfortunately not uncommon. If you or a loved one have been injured in a crash caused by a driver without insurance, it’s vital to know your rights and options under Georgia law.
Understanding Georgia’s Uninsured Motorist Laws
Georgia requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, but enforcement gaps mean many drive without coverage. According to recent data, around 12% of Georgia drivers were uninsured. When an uninsured driver car accident Savannah causes injuries or damages, victims often face challenges recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Fortunately, Georgia law includes protections for victims through uninsured motorist coverage Georgia. This allows injured parties to file an uninsured motorist claim Savannah under their own insurance policies if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured. However, knowing what to do if the driver has no insurance GA and how to properly file these claims is critical to securing fair compensation.
What to Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Savannah
If you find yourself hit by uninsured driver Savannah GA, it’s important to take the right steps immediately:
Call 911 and Document the Scene
Always call law enforcement and request a police report, especially when the other driver lacks insurance. A police report strengthens your uninsured motorist claim Savannah and legal case. Take photos of vehicle damage, the accident scene, and any injuries you sustained.
Exchange Information—but Don’t Rely on the Other Driver’s Insurance
Obtain the other driver’s license and registration information. Confirm the lack of insurance if possible, but avoid confrontation. This step is critical because many victims wonder what to do if driver has no insurance GA during the chaotic aftermath.
Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately
Report the accident to your insurer even if you don’t plan to file a claim right away. Many policies require prompt notification to qualify for uninsured motorist coverage Georgia benefits. Failure to report can jeopardize your claim.
File an Uninsured Motorist Claim
You may file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage Georgia to seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. Be prepared for potential disputes or delays from your insurer.
Consult a Savannah Car Accident Lawyer Uninsured Driver Experts
An experienced lawyer specializing in Savannah car accident lawyer uninsured driver cases can help gather evidence, communicate with insurance adjusters, and ensure your claim is properly filed and negotiated. They also help identify other possible sources of compensation.
Common Challenges in Uninsured Motorist Claims
Policy Limits
Your uninsured motorist coverage Georgia may have lower limits than your total damages.
Disputes Over Fault
Insurers might claim partial fault to reduce payments.
Delays and Denials
Some companies deny uninsured motorist claim Savannah cases to protect profits. Legal representation helps fight these unfair tactics.
Medical Bills and Lost Wages
Calculating fair compensation is complex and requires detailed documentation.
Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver in Georgia?
Yes, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against an uninsured driver car accident Savannah defendant. However, collecting damages can be difficult if the driver lacks assets. Your lawyer will assess the driver’s ability to pay and pursue all possible compensation channels.
Importance of Having Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Georgia
Many drivers are unaware that Georgia does not require uninsured motorist coverage Georgia on auto insurance policies. Without it, victims of no insurance accident Georgia crashes have limited options. If you don’t have UM coverage, your recovery may depend solely on suing the uninsured driver.
When purchasing or renewing insurance, ask your agent about adding or increasing uninsured motorist coverage Georgia to protect yourself from uninsured drivers.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk?
Our Savannah team has extensive experience helping victims of hit by uninsured driver Savannah GA crashes. We understand local courts and insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
We offer:
- Personalized, aggressive representation
- Assistance with uninsured motorist claim Savannah processes
- Help negotiating with insurance companies
- Evaluation of all potential sources of compensation
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file an uninsured motorist claim Savannah?
You must notify your insurer promptly, and file any lawsuit within two years of the accident under Georgia law.
What if the uninsured driver flees the scene?
You can still file an uninsured motorist claim Savannah under your own policy, and your lawyer can assist with investigating hit-and-run claims.
Can I recover damages for pain and suffering?
Yes. UM claims typically include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.