How Do I Report an Uninsured Driver?

(Photo : How Do I Report an Uninsured Driver?)

Despite the fact that every state has its own limits and minimums of required car insurance, many people still get behind the wheel without adequate - and sometimes without any - insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute and the Insurance Research Council, 13% of all motorists in the United States were uninsured in 2017. The percentage of uninsured drivers was highest in Florida, in which over 26%, or more than a quarter of all drivers, drove without insurance.

Do's and Don'ts For Accidents With Uninsured Drivers

Let's say you've been in a non-serious car accident and have pulled over to the curb to speak with the other driver. If you discover that they do not have insurance and are not sure what to do, follow these steps.

1. Call the police. Whether or not you've been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you should always call the police. When you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured motorist, however, calling the police is much more important, since a police report can help you get the compensation and coverage you deserve.

2. Do not accept any money. An uninsured driver involved in an accident will likely face heavy fees and fines. As a result, he or she may offer you money on the spot to avoid having the accident reported. Right after an accident, you will not likely have a realistic idea of the costs and damages that you have sustained, so do not accept any money from the other driver.

3. Trade information. Make sure you get the other driver's contact information, as well as details on their vehicle. Also note down the time and location of the accident, as well as the name and badge number of the police or law enforcement officer who arrived at the scene.

4. Take pictures. Capture images of damage sustained by your car as well as the other vehicle. If you can, take pictures of any skid marks, any physical injury you may have sustained, the license plate of the other driver, as well as the road itself. These kinds of details are important parts of recreating accident scenes and in determining who was at fault for an accident.

Filing a Claim Against an Uninsured Driver

Armed with the information above, you are now in a position to file a claim against the uninsured driver. Provide the following to your insurance company as part of your claim.

- Your insurance card, since you will need to provide your insurer with your policy number when you file a claim.

- The date, time, and location of the accident.

- Provide all of the details you collected pertaining to the accident, such as photos, video recordings, driver details, etc.

- Provide your insurance company with the name and badge number of the respondent officer.

Being involved in an accident with uninsured motorists is a growing problem, one that the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) says much needs to be done to address. If an uninsured motorist caused the accident you were involved in, they can be sued. If you caused the accident, your insurer should cover many of the resulting damages if you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your policy.  If you have been harmed as a result, or need help, consult a car accident lawyer to give you advice or to help you with your case.