Car accidents are frustrating enough, but when you’re hit by someone without insurance it can be incredibly difficult. You’re already dealing with injuries and pain, and now you find out the irresponsible driver has no insurance to help pay for your injuries. Knowing what to do about it can help you still seek compensation for your injuries through alternative means.
At Underwood Law, LLC, our Georgia car accident lawyers are here to help. We help injured people seek compensation even when the other driver is uninsured. Know your options and what to expect from the next steps.
Georgia Requires Insurance—But Many Drivers Still Don’t Have It
Georgia law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If an uninsured driver hits you, your best protection is Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage is optional in Georgia, but most drivers carry it without realizing how valuable it is until they need it.
UM coverage can pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repairs
- Funeral expenses in fatal crashes
Georgia allows two types of UM coverage:
1. Traditional (Reduced) UM Coverage
Your UM coverage is reduced by any liability coverage the at‑fault driver has. If they have none, your full UM limits apply.
2. Added‑On UM Coverage
Your UM limits stack on top of any available liability coverage. This provides stronger protection and is often only slightly more expensive.
What If You Don’t Have UM Coverage?
If you don’t carry UM coverage, your options are more limited, but not nonexistent.
You may still pursue:
- A personal injury claim directly against the at‑fault driver
- A lawsuit to obtain a judgment
- Recovery through the driver’s personal assets
However, uninsured drivers often lack the financial resources to pay judgments. This makes UM coverage the most reliable path for compensation.
Georgia’s Fault System Still Applies
Even when the other driver is uninsured, Georgia’s fault‑based system remains in play. You must still prove:
- The other driver caused the crash
- You suffered injuries or property damage
- Your losses were directly related to the collision
Your UM insurer essentially “steps into the shoes” of the at‑fault driver. That means they may challenge fault, dispute injuries, or attempt to minimize your claim, just like a liability insurer would.
Common Scenarios Where UM Coverage Helps
UM coverage applies in more situations than most people realize. It can protect you if:
- An uninsured driver rear‑ends you
- A driver flees the scene (hit‑and‑run)
- A driver gives false insurance information
- A driver’s policy lapsed without their knowledge
- You’re a passenger in someone else’s vehicle
- You’re hit while walking or biking
Georgia law allows UM coverage to follow you, not just your vehicle.
What You Should Do Immediately After an Uninsured Driver Hits You
To strengthen your claim, take these steps right away:
1. Call the Police: A police report is essential, especially when the other driver is uninsured or tries to avoid responsibility.
2. Get Medical Attention: Even minor injuries can worsen. Medical records are key evidence.
3. Document Everything: Take photos, gather witness information, and note any statements the other driver makes.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the crash, but avoid giving recorded statements until you understand your rights.
5. Request a Copy of the Police Report: It will confirm whether the other driver lacked insurance.
Get in Touch with a Skilled Georgia Car Accident Attorney Today for Help With Uninsured Motorist Cases
Dealing with an uninsured motorist is incredibly frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the road for your ability to get compensation. There are often other options available when you know how to pursue them.
Our team at Underwood Law, LLC are ready to help with your needs. Contact us today for a consultation.
