All too often, people who have been in motor vehicle crashes end up with serious injuries. One of the first concerns of victims usually has to do with the compensation they can collect for damages arising from the accident. Typically, auto insurance covers repair bills, hospital expenses, and other car wreck losses. However, the situation can become complicated and stressful when the at-fault driver is uninsured. Victims are left worrying where else they could turn to for monetary recovery.
If you find yourself in troublesome circumstances with another driver who has no insurance coverage, reach out to a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer. Other options for pursuing damages may be available, and you need the guidance of someone who can protect your rights. Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC, today at (844) 730-0233, to ask questions about filing a claim and to receive a free assessment of your case.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Raleigh
It is mandatory for vehicle owners in North Carolina to have minimum liability insurance coverage before registering their vehicles, according to North Carolina General Statutes (GS) §20-309. As long as they are using a North Carolina license plate, they should maintain this coverage or face criminal and civil penalties. Also, GS §20-279.21 defines and explains uninsured motorist coverage. The law requires motorists to have this type of coverage in their auto insurance policy, including property and bodily injury damage.
Uninsured motorist coverage covers vehicle owners, their family members, passengers, and any other person driving the vehicle with permission from the owner. If you have a mishap with an uninsured driver, the coverage will pay for these persons’ injuries up to the policy limits. However, victims must first be entitled to damages before using uninsured motorist coverage. Additionally, it may not be easy to obtain a fair settlement amount even from your insurer.
Despite the necessity and benefits of carrying auto insurance, not every driver has coverage. This is where your uninsured coverage comes in. You could collect benefits under your policy if you suffered injuries and property damage after a crash. Your policy limit amount will determine the compensation you receive. Nevertheless, laws and procedures for claims can be confusing, which is why it is best to seek counsel from a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer following a collision.
For a free legal consultation with a uninsured car lawyer serving Raleigh, call (844) 730-0233
Opening a Claim with Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Even if you were the injured party in an accident and the other driver does not have insurance, you would still need to show that you are legally entitled to pursue damages. Although an uninsured motorist claim is different from a personal injury lawsuit, your insurer may nonetheless require you to prove first that the other driver is liable for your injuries.
When you open a claim, you begin by telling your car insurance company about your car crash and the at-fault uninsured driver. You do not need to give additional details except for the most basic ones because the insurance company might hold your statement against you. Generally, there will be an investigation of the collision afterward, followed by negotiations and a settlement offer, which you may or may not agree to.
Be aware that your insurer will not pay more than your policy limits. If your damages exceed your limits, it would be best to consult a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer about your options. Your legal advocate can also handle disputes about your claim and the settlement amount. Do not hesitate to contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC, at (844) 730-0233, if you encounter difficulties filing an insurance claim.
Raleigh Uninsured Car Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Other Possible Sources of Compensation
Even if the at-fault driver lacks insurance coverage, you may be able to receive compensation after prevailing in a civil lawsuit. Since North Carolina is a fault state, you can recover damages from the motorist who caused your accident. Just because the negligent driver is uninsured does not mean that you cannot hold them accountable for your injury and losses. Moreover, a lawsuit may also be an option when your uninsured motorist coverage is not enough to cover expenses and other damages you incurred. Discuss your case with a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer to see if it is worth bringing a civil claim.
Another option you can explore is seeking compensation from the employer of the uninsured motorist. This might be a viable alternative if the other driver was working within their employment scope when the accident occurred. Normally, companies have insurance coverage that can pay for injuries and damages they cause. If their driver does not have insurance coverage, you may have the right to pursue compensation from the employer.
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Car Accident Laws in North Carolina That May Affect Your Claim
The statute of limitations in North Carolina for personal injury is three years from the accident date. Unless an exception applies to your case, you must file your lawsuit within the legal time limit. This strict deadline will bar you from proceeding with your suit once you fail to comply with the law. As such, it would be wise to hire a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer well before the expiration of the time limit.
Another law you have to be aware of is contributory negligence. This will prevent you from recovering compensation for damages if you are in any way to blame for your accident. Both your insurance company and the other driver may use this as a legal defense to deny your claim. Your attorney can evaluate the merit of your case and advise you as to how you should proceed.
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You Do Not Have to Deal with Your Legal Problems Alone
If you have been significantly harmed in a car accident, it can be exhausting to handle your medical needs, insurance claim, police investigations, and other legal issues by yourself. Ben Crump Law, PLLC, understands that an encounter with an uninsured driver can compound your stress and worries, making it challenging to focus on healing. If you believe the fault lies with the other driver, do not delay speaking to a Raleigh uninsured car accident lawyer. Working with us means you have an advocate who will promote your best interest and advise you on all your options to get compensation.
Get in touch with a member of our team today at (844) 730-0233 before speaking to your insurance company. We provide a free consultation, and we do not collect fees until we win.
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