Uninsured Motorists Leave Families Struggling after Crashes
A family from Austin, Texas, is learning the hard way what it is like to be hurt by a drunk driver who does not have insurance. Two parents were driving with their son when they were struck from behind by a truck. The driver of the truck was arrested at the scene for driving while intoxicated. Neither she nor the owner of the truck had up-to-date insurance on the vehicle, though the lapse in their insurance payments was too new for it to be picked up by the police. The victim family is now trying to physically and financially recover from the accident that sent their son to the ICU for a time without the at-fault party’s insurance to cover the damages. Every year, families across Texas find themselves in this position. If you were in a car accident caused by a driver without insurance, call the Austin personal injury attorneys at our firm to learn your legal options.
Uninsured Motorists across the U.S.
Some basic level of auto insurance is required in every state. Texas requires drivers to have liability insurance of at least $30,000 per person injured, so $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. The entire purpose of this requirement is to ensure drivers can be financially responsible for any accidents they cause.
Despite this legal requirement, thousands of Texas drivers operate a car without insurance. The state currently estimates 20 percent of drivers are uninsured. This is far too many people creating risks for other responsible drivers. Texas created a database of drivers without mandatory insurance, though it is not always up-to-date.
What to do after an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
If you were hit by a driver who does not have any insurance, you will have to figure out another way to pay your vehicle repair and medical bills. If you are lucky and purchased uninsured motorist coverage, your own auto insurance company may help repair your vehicle or pay for personal injuries. However, you may have been like many other people who did not think they would ever need it or simply could not afford a larger insurance policy. Without uninsured motorist coverage, you face many bills after you miss work, meaning you owe more money after earning less.
You may need to file a personal injury claim in court against the driver who caused your accidents. Suing the individual responsible may be the only way for you to recover the money you need to fix your car or buy a new one, pay your medical bills, and make up for your lost wages. A personal injury suit may seem intimidating, but by working with an experienced New Braunfels personal injury attorney of The Bettersworth Law Firm, you gain a fierce advocate for your rights and recovery. Your lawyer will guide you through the process, constantly working to make your life better – not harder.
Sources:
http://kxan.com/2016/09/21/family-left-to-pay-1000s-in-bills-after-hit-by-drunk-uninsured-driver/
http://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/register-your-vehicle/texassure-insurance-verification
