All drivers are required to have car insurance in Chicago to drive legally. However, you may find yourself in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Learn about underinsured and uninsured coverage and what to do if you get into an accident with a driver who has no insurance.
Overview of Uninsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Drivers in Illinois must carry Uninsured Motorist Protection, which covers passengers and drivers for injuries sustained in accidents with uninsured motorists. UM also pays for funeral costs, lost wages because of injury, pain and suffering, and property damage in some cases.
Underinsured motorist Protection compensates for damages when the responsible driver does not have enough coverage to pay for injury and damages. For example, if you have $30,000 in medical bills, and the driver only has a $20,000 limit, your policy will pay up to the limit. The minimum coverage required for uninsured/underinsured protection is $50,00 per accident and $25,000 per person, though you can add more.
Filing an Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claim
If you get hit by an uninsured driver, pull to safety and immediately notify the police and your insurance provider. Get the other driver’s name, vehicle make and model, phone number, address, and license number, and give them your contact information.
Try to recall as many details as possible about the accident, take photos, and collect witness statements, if possible. Do not delay seeking medical attention, even though you feel fine, because some injuries may not be apparent. While an uninsured driver won’t have a provider, if they refuse to give you their details, inform the police when they arrive.
It is still possible to recover damages from drivers who don’t have car insurance in Chicago. If you need coverage, contact Accurate Auto Insurance for a free quote.
