Life can change in an instant when you’re involved in a car accident.

The costs of being in a car accident can be astronomical, especially if you or a loved one were severely injured in the collision. If the driver who hit you does not have insurance at all or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, the way you handle the situation differs some from making a simple collision claim.

Here’s what you need to do after getting into an accident with an uninsured/underinsured motorist and how to get help after a devastating accident.

Call the Police

It’s important to contact the authorities after a car accident to get a formal record of the event, even if the other driver discourages you from doing so. If no injuries exist, call the police to respond to the scene. If one or more people in your vehicle or the other driver’s vehicle were hurt, call an ambulance and get immediate medical attention.

Don’t Discuss Fault

The other driver may try to blame you for the accident, or if they believe they were at fault, they may try to discourage you from reporting the accident. Leave fault off the table — don’t discuss it at all and definitely don’t admit to it. The police and your insurance company can review the facts and will assign fault based on the evidence available.

Don’t Accept Money

The other driver may try to pay you or settle things with you privately instead of reaching out to your insurance company. Don’t accept money or agree to refrain from reporting the accident. This could compromise any case you may have later, either against their insurance company if they were underinsured or against them civilly.

Call Your Car Insurance Provider

If the person who caused your accident was uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company using your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage is designed specifically to pay for damages like medical bills, lost wages, vehicle damage, and any other expenses that are a direct result of the accident. You may also be able to hold the other driver civilly liable for the accident in some cases.

Consult with a Maryland Personal Injury Lawyer

Were you or a loved one hurt in a car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist? The Avid Injury & Criminal Defense Law Firm can help. Call today for a consultation to discuss your legal options at (240) 561-7433.