Matthew Millea

Being involved in a car accident is never easy, and the stress can quickly intensify when you discover the other driver doesn’t have insurance. Even though most states require drivers to carry liability coverage, many people still choose to drive without it. (Nationally, one in seven drivers are uninsured.) When that happens, recovering money for medical care, lost income, and vehicle repairs can feel uncertain. Fortunately, there are still several avenues available to help you move forward. 

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, the moments that follow are incredibly important. Start by checking yourself and others for injuries. Whether or not anyone appears hurt, call law enforcement so an official accident report can be filed. This documentation is critical later when evaluating insurance options or pursuing a claim.

Once everyone is safe, try to collect as much information as possible. Write down the other driver’s contact details, vehicle description, and license plate number. Take photos of vehicle damage, the surrounding area, and anything else that could help illustrate what happened. Gathering thorough evidence early on can make a significant difference in how smoothly your claim progresses.

After documenting the scene, reach out to your insurance company right away. Reporting the accident promptly ensures your insurer can begin the claims process, guide you on what to expect, and explain how your specific coverage applies. Because most states use an “at-fault” system — meaning the person responsible for causing the crash must cover the damages — fault determination will play a major role in how your claim unfolds.

How Your Insurance Coverage May Help

If the uninsured driver is ultimately found at fault, your own auto policy may offer protection depending on the optional coverages you carry. Smart drivers have uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which steps in when the other driver has no insurance or not enough coverage to pay for your losses. This coverage often helps with medical bills, missed income from time off work, and in some cases, the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.

You may also have additional forms of protection that apply regardless of who caused the accident. Collision coverage can assist with repairing your vehicle, while medical payments coverage can help with medical expenses and related costs. These benefits can provide crucial financial support following an accident with an uninsured driver. However, if you do not carry these optional coverages, your insurance options may be more limited.

Considering Legal Action

In some situations, filing a lawsuit against the uninsured driver may be an option for recovering your losses. Taking legal action can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related costs. This approach, however, is only beneficial when the at-fault driver has sufficient assets or income to satisfy a settlement or judgment.

Because this route can be complex, many people choose to consult with a car accident attorney before deciding whether to proceed. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances of your crash, review the uninsured driver’s financial situation, and help you understand the strengths and challenges of your case. They can also guide you on how to document your injuries and expenses to support your claim.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

A hit-and-run accident involving a driver who cannot be identified is treated in a similar way. Since the responsible person cannot be located or confirmed, your uninsured motorist coverage generally applies. To protect your claim, make sure to notify law enforcement as quickly as possible and provide them with any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle or driver.

After speaking with police, contact your insurance company so they can walk you through next steps. As with any accident, prompt reporting helps preserve your ability to recover compensation through your policy.

Getting Support After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

Dealing with the aftermath of a collision is difficult, and learning the other driver doesn’t carry insurance can make the process even more overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to handle everything on your own. Many people benefit from working with an attorney who can communicate with insurance companies, explain coverage options, and advocate for your best interests.

Understanding your available insurance protections and taking swift action after the accident are key steps in reducing financial stress. With the right guidance and a clear plan, it’s possible to recover the compensation you need to move forward after an accident with an uninsured driver.