How to Handle Property Damage After an Uninsured Driver Hits You

Key Highlight

• Stay calm and check for injuries after the accident. Call 911 if needed. Move vehicles out of traffic if safe.
• Contact the police and report the uninsured driver. A police report is crucial for your insurance claim.
• Gather evidence: take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions, and collect witness details and the other driver’s contact info.
• Notify your insurance promptly and inform them the other driver was uninsured.
• Review your insurance coverage, such as Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) or Collision coverage, which may help cover repair costs.
• Obtain repair estimates from multiple shops to ensure fair pricing.
• If insurance doesn’t cover all damages, consider legal action or consult a lawyer specializing in car accidents for further assistance.

Facing property damage after being hit by an uninsured driver can be stressful and confusing. Without the responsible party’s insurance to cover repairs, many drivers are left unsure of their options. Knowing how to handle property damage in such a situation is crucial to ensuring you don’t bear the financial burden alone.

Taking the right steps immediately after the accident can help protect your rights and make sure you recover the compensation you deserve. By understanding your insurance coverage, gathering evidence, and exploring legal options, you can effectively manage the challenges that come with dealing with an uninsured driver.

1. Stay Calm and Stay Safe

Immediately after the accident, make sure everyone is safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 for medical assistance. Move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s possible and safe to do so. Take a moment to stay calm and assess the situation. It’s important to know what to do if you’re hit by an uninsured motorist to protect yourself and your rights.

2. Call the Police

Always call the police after an accident, especially when the other driver is uninsured. A police report is essential because it provides an official record of the incident. This report will help your insurance company process your claim and determine fault. Be sure to tell the officer if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, as this will help with how to prove the other driver was uninsured if needed later.

3. Collect Evidence

Gather as much information as you can about the accident. Here’s what to collect:

• Take photos of the damage to both vehicles and any other property.
• Capture the accident scene from different angles, including road conditions and traffic signs.
• Get the uninsured driver’s contact information, but do not argue with them about the lack of insurance.
• Ask for contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident.

Documenting these details is key for how to recover losses after an accident with an uninsured driver.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

After leaving the scene, report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Explain that the other driver was uninsured. Depending on your coverage, your insurance may still cover the costs associated with the damage. It’s important to understand how to file a claim after an accident with an uninsured driver to ensure you follow the right steps.

5. Check Your Insurance Coverage

There are several types of coverage that can help with property damage when the at-fault driver is uninsured:

• Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): This type of coverage is designed specifically for situations where an uninsured driver damages your property.
• Collision Coverage: If you have collision coverage, it can help pay for repairs to your car after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. However, you may have to pay a deductible.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): While this won’t cover property damage, it’s good to know that PIP can help with medical expenses after an accident.

If you don’t have any of these coverages, you may need to explore other options for how to recover losses after an accident with an uninsured driver.

6. Get Repair Estimates

Once your insurance company has given you the go-ahead, take your car to an auto body shop to get an estimate for repairs. It’s a good idea to get estimates from a few different shops to make sure you’re getting a fair price. Be aware of what to know about uninsured motorist coverage limits, as this can impact your claim.

7. Consider Legal Action

If your insurance doesn’t fully cover the damage, or if you don’t have the right coverage, you might want to consider legal action against the uninsured driver. A lawsuit could potentially help you recover the cost of repairs, but keep in mind that if the driver doesn’t have insurance, they may not have many assets to pay you back. Consult with a lawyer to determine can I get compensation if the at-fault driver has no insurance.

8. Work with a Lawyer

If you’re struggling to navigate the claims process or want to explore your legal options, working with a lawyer who specializes in car accidents can be a huge help. They can negotiate with your insurance company, gather additional evidence, and even represent you in court if necessary. For more complex cases, like what to do if the uninsured driver flees the scene, a lawyer can provide invaluable guidance.

All our cases are handled contingently, so you only have to pay us once we win. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. 

How Can a Lawyer Help After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver?

If dealing with the claims process becomes overwhelming or your insurance doesn’t fully cover your costs, a lawyer can assist by:

• Gathering Evidence: Collecting photos, documents, and witness statements to build a case.
• Managing Paperwork: Handling the legal forms and insurance claims so you can focus on repairs.
• Seeking Fair Compensation: Negotiating with your insurer to make sure you get the money needed for repairs.
• Navigating Legal Issues: Addressing any legal complications that may arise and representing you in court if necessary.

For more information on how we can assist you, check out our Personal Injury FAQs.

Talk to an Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, don’t face the situation alone. Our experienced uninsured motorist accident lawyers can guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us or call us at (404) 888-4444 for a free consultation.

Conclusion

Dealing with property damage after an uninsured driver hits you can be frustrating, but there are ways to protect yourself. From contacting the police to working with your insurance company and considering legal options, you don’t have to face this situation alone. Make sure you’re aware of your coverage options, and don’t hesitate to seek legal advice if needed. With the right steps, you can handle the aftermath and get your property repaired as quickly and smoothly as possible. 

Our specialized uninsured motorist accident lawyers are here to help you get through the process and secure the compensation you need. Reach out for a free consultation or call (404) 888-4444.