Steps to Take after a Collision with an Uninsured Driver in Orlando

Getting into a collision with any driver can cause a lot of stress and frustration. However, getting into a car accident with an uninsured driver can only add to the frustration of the situation. Aside from the fact that it is illegal in Florida to drive a vehicle while uninsured, getting into a collision with a driver who is not insured can make the process of filing an injury claim difficult.  A recent study found that over 20% of the drivers on the road in Florida are uninsured.   

While many drivers would assume they won’t be able to get compensated, the experienced team at Wooten Kimbrough Damaso & Dennis, P.A. wants to help you understand that steps can be taken after a collision with an uninsured driver that could aid your claim. When an uninsured driver is at fault in a collision, you can pursue compensation in two ways — either through your underinsured motorist coverage or by pursuing a lawsuit against the individual. 

Gather Information Immediately After the Collision

Orlando is home to a large chunk of the infamous I-4 highway, also known as the most dangerous highway in the United States. With a dangerous highway and Orlando’s ever-growing population and tourism industry, it is not uncommon to find yourself in a collision. If you end up in a car accident with an uninsured driver, it is vital to take action as soon as you can do so safely. You will want to check yourself for injuries, call emergency services, and then gather the following information: 

• Take photos of any damage to your vehicle
• Take photos of any visible injuries
• Exchange contact information with the other driver
• Make sure there is a police report taken down

Obtaining the at-fault driver’s information is always essential in an accident, but if they are uninsured, it is even more critical that you get their name and best line of contact before they leave the scene. 

Consider How You Want to Pursue Compensation for Damages

There are several different ways you can pursue compensation for the damages you have suffered following a collision with an uninsured driver. With that being said, the help of our experienced Orlando car accident lawyer will be critical in helping you through the claims process. 

• Suing an Uninsured Driver: While this is an option, this is not the most advisable or lucrative option. Since uninsured drivers often do not have many resources, it is unlikely a judge will award you a large settlement in the event you win the case. 
• File a Claim with Your Insurance: If you have purchased underinsured motorist coverage, you may have the option to pursue a claim against your insurance company to cover the injuries and damages you sustained by the uninsured driver.  In Florida, uninsured motorist coverage is optional, which means it is not automatically added to your automobile insurance coverage.  Although it is optional, uninsured motorist coverage is a very important piece of insurance to purchased, given the number of uninsured drivers on the road.

Seek Assistance from The Orlando Car Accident Injury Lawyers

Getting into a car accident with an uninsured driver can leave you feeling hopeless, believing you are out of luck when filing an injury claim. However, this is not true. While it is more difficult to file a claim when the at-fault driver is uninsured, it is possible with the help of an experienced Orlando car accident injury lawyer. 

The award-winning team at Wooten Kimbrough Damaso & Dennis, P.A has been providing legal advice to the Orlando community for the past 60 years. To schedule your free consultation, contact us here or call (407) 843-7060.