When a negligent driver causes a crash, any reasonable person would expect that they pay for the resulting damages. Unfortunately, there are times when the at-fault driver is uninsured or does not carry enough coverage to pay for the full-extent of an injured person’s losses. Traveling on any road in Bridgeport without liability insurance is illegal and can result in a driver losing their driver’s license and paying hefty fines.
How Will a Bridgeport Uninsured and Underinsured Car Accident Attorney Help Me?
Unfortunately, motorists still take the risk and drive without the minimum amount of coverage state laws require. While being involved in a crash with an uninsured motorist can be very stressful, you likely have options to pay for the damages through your own insurance policy. If you need help with a claim, call a seasoned auto collision attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law to discuss uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Bridgeport and how to handle them.
UM/UIM and Underinsured Motorist Conversion Insurance
Uninsured/underinsured or UM/UIM coverage typically covers damages for injuries and property when the liable driver does not have coverage. It covers the policyholder, passengers in the car at the time of the accident, and household members.
If the policy includes conversion coverage, it will reimburse those parties for damages exceeding an at-fault driver’s insurance coverage limit. Another benefit is that other payouts will never reduce the amount of coverage the policy provides.
State regulations require that all insurers inform policyholders of their rights. They must go over eligibility to purchase underinsured motorist conversion coverage at the time of purchase. A well-practiced Bridgeport lawyer like Bert McDowell could answer any questions you may have about uninsured/underinsured auto collisions and help you navigate through this challenging process.
Filing a Claim in Civil Court
Not only do motorists have automatic protections within their own insurance policy, but they could also file a claim for damages with the civil court following uninsured/underinsured car crashes in Bridgeport. Individuals with more damages than their coverage offers may choose to commence an action for a personal injury claim. However, in many instances, if the driver does not have the funds to purchase the minimum amount of insurance coverage, they may not pay for damages even when the court issues a judgment.
Auto Insurance Provider Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage Requirements
State regulations require that all insurance policies provide coverage for accidents involving uninsured/underinsured drivers in this state. They must cover personal injuries and property damage.
The guidelines protect the motorist and all their family members living in the same household. Under the Connecticut General Statute § 38a-336, all liability insurers that operate in this state must provide UM/UIM policy coverage that is equal to the liability coverage at a minimum.
All motorists must carry a minimum amount of liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. After a collision with an at-fault driver with inadequate coverage, working with a Bridgeport injury lawyer experienced with uninsured/underinsured car accidents can ensure you know your rights.
Call a Bridgeport Law Firm Concerning Uninsured/Underinsured Car Accidents
Every automobile wreck is stressful, inconvenient, and could leave you with injuries and other damages. You may also need to miss time from work after the accident while you recover at home. A car crash with a negligent driver who does not have coverage or only carries the minimum can be even more overwhelming, leaving you unsure where to begin.
Call a skilled attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law to learn more about uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Bridgeport and your rights. A dedicated legal professional like Bert McDowell could answer your questions and help you determine the best avenue to take to collect compensation. As soon as you are ready to get started, Bring on Bert!