What Happens if You’re in an Accident with an Uninsured Driver?

Dealing with the aftermath of a motor vehicle collision is complicated—especially so if you found out that the other driver does not have adequate insurance coverage. Alarmingly, the Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that approximately 12.5 percent of motorists in South Carolina are uninsured. Uninsured motorist claims are complicated. In this article, you will find an overview of what happens after an accident with an uninsured driver in South Carolina as well as a guide to your options for pursuing financial compensation.

Know the Law: Automobile Liability Coverage Requirements in South Carolina

All motorists in our state must carry minimum mandatory liability coverage. As explained by the South Carolina Department of Insurance, the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements are:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury;
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury; and
• $25,000 for property damage.

Steps to Take After the Accident With an Uninsured Driver

What should you do after a crash in Charleston, Greenville, or elsewhere in South Carolina when you found out that the other driver does not have insurance? Here are four steps:

1. Stop your vehicle, remain at the scene, and get their personal/vehicle information;
2. Report the collision to local or state law enforcement;
3. Get immediate medical care for any physical injuries (emergencies take priority);
4. Document the crash—taking photos and getting witness contact details; and
5. Consult with a lawyer before you give a statement to any insurance adjuster.

Your Options for Recovering Compensation After a Collision With an Uninsured Driver

Uninsured motorist claims can be frustrating. With that being said, car accident victims in South Carolina have options available even if the other driver did not have the proper insurance coverage.

Here is an overview of your three main options for pursuing compensation for your damages:

• The Uninsured Driver: Pursuing compensation directly from an uninsured driver is always an option. However, in practice, this option can be difficult. Uninsured motorists in South Carolina often lack the financial resources to pay for an injured victim’s damages. 

• Your Own Insurance Company: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company to recover compensation for your damages. Indeed, a claim through your own insurer is often the best option for getting financial support. A South Carolina uninsured accident lawyer can help you navigate a UM/UIM claim.

• A Negligent Third Party: In some cases, a third party might have contributed to the accident, allowing you to seek compensation from their insurance. It could be another driver, a trucking company, a highway road crew, or a vehicle manufacturer.

Contact South Carolina Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorney for a Free Case Review

Remember Trey Helps put the rights of injured victims first. If you have any specific questions or concerns about uninsured motorist accident claims, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us today for your free, no obligation case review. With offices in Charleston, Greenville, and Summerville, we handle uninsured motorist claims throughout all of South Carolina.