West Virginia state law requires that all vehicle owners purchase and maintain liability insurance on cars they own. Unfortunately, some people choose to risk the well-being of others by not securing this type of coverage. Therefore, it is important to know how you should prepare for and respond to an accident with a WV uninsured motorist.
Prepare for and Recover from an Accident with a WV Uninsured Motorist
While the majority of West Virginians do the right thing and maintain the required liability insurance on their vehicle, one in ten do not. According to the Insurance Information Institute, ten percent of West Virginia’s automobile owners are uninsured, compared to 13 percent of motorists nationwide.
If you have the misfortune of being hit by an uninsured driver in WV, it is important that you have prepared for such an event, that you know how to take appropriate action, and that you consider exercising your right to legal representation as you move forward with your uninsured motorist claim.
Insurance Is Critical if You Are Hit by an Uninsured Driver in WV
If you are in an accident with an uninsured motorist—a driver who has no insurance—you may be able to recover damages under your own insurance policy. This also applies if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident. According to West Virginia Code § 33-6-31, every insured driver is required to have Uninsured Motorist Coverage at least in the amounts that follow:
- $25,000 property damage
- $25,000 for one injury or death
- $50,000 for two injuries or deaths
Furthermore, insurance companies must give you the option of purchasing more coverage for uninsured and underinsured motorists. You may decline the option to have more than the minimum coverage for uninsured coverage or any coverage at all. However, purchasing uninsured and underinsured insurance is a wise decision. Consider maintaining insurance in equal limits as your liability coverage, as rates are fairly reasonable, and doing so may save you time, money, and significant headaches later.
What to Do Immediately after an Accident with a WV Uninsured Motorist
After being hit by an uninsured motorist in WV or elsewhere, it is important to put yourself in the best possible position by taking these actions as soon as possible:
- Take photographs of the damages and the accident scene.
- Gather the information of the other driver.
- Call the police so they can fill out an accident report.
- Visit your doctor to get a professional opinion on the nature and extent of any potential injuries.
- Consult with a lawyer about your legal options.
What if the Insurance Company Denies Your WV Uninsured Motorist Claim?
Because they don’t want to compensate you, many insurance companies deny coverage for any reason. Therefore, it is a good idea to contact a lawyer if your insurance company is denying your claims for coverage. A qualified attorney can help you maximize the compensation you receive when you file an uninsured motorist claim. In fact, it is often wise to consult with an attorney before giving a formal statement to your own insurance company.
Your Uninsured Motorist Claim Should Compensate You Fully
If you have the misfortune of being hit by a WV uninsured motorist or one who flees the scene of an accident, you may be entitled to benefits through your personal insurance policy or other sources. Assuring that you maximize the benefits available to you under the law will be of critical importance as you recover both physically and financially.
An experienced lawyer can help you determine a proper, fair course of action after an accident with a WV uninsured motorist. Kelly Reed and her team have won millions of dollars in compensation for her clients. Contact the Law Offices of Kelly R. Reed today or call 304-292-2020 to schedule a free initial consultation.