If you have been involved in a car accident, chances are, you might have questions and concerns about what comes next. Perhaps you suffered serious injuries in the process, and if the other driver is at fault, you may subsequently be wondering about the available options for pursuing compensation.
In some cases, insurance coverage might reduce the financial burdens that may accompany such an incident. However, what happens if the other party’s plan isn’t sufficient to cover your damages, or worse yet, what if they don’t carry any coverage at all?
Carrying additional insurance in case others don’t
Being involved in a collision with someone who’s coverage is either insufficient or nonexistent may only add to the difficulty of an already stressful situation. However, your own insurance might include coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorists, and the additional plans that may be available could include the following:
- Uninsured motorist insurance: If you are in a collision with a driver who doesn’t carry insurance, UM insurance could assist in covering certain expenses, such as costs of medical treatment, which can be extensive, especially if your injuries are severe.
- Underinsured motorist insurance: Perhaps the other party carries coverage, but the amount is insufficient to cover your needs. If you carry UIM, your own plan could step in and cover the amount that exceeds the other party’s coverage limits.
- UMPD/UIMPD: These types of insurance also cover collisions involving uninsured or underinsured motorists, and may provide compensation for damages to your vehicle and personal items.
While some states require drivers to have UM, UIM or both types of insurance, in others, they may only be available as options. However, even if Louisiana state laws require you to carry these forms of coverage, the process of pursuing restitution can be stressful and daunting, and seeking guidance could be in your best interests.
Obtaining advice for the road ahead
Suffering serious injuries in a motor vehicle collision can create numerous challenges in life, such as a need for long-term treatment or difficulty returning to employment. This can bring about a desire for financial relief, but with the presence of numerous insurance concerns, the process can be complex. You could choose to speak with someone with experience in the area for advice on how to proceed. Obtaining guidance could help prepare you to pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve through the necessary outlets.