According to statistics compiled last June, more than 13 percent of Texas motorists, about 2.6 million people, are driving without the minimum insurance required by state law. Collisions with uninsured or underinsured drivers happen more often than people like to believe and it’s important to be prepared so that you aren’t left paying out-of-pocket in the event of an accident.
Typically the at-fault driver’s insurance pays for the victim’s medical expenses, vehicle repairs and a replacement rental car. In an accident with an uninsured driver, however, the victim has to pick up the tab.
That’s why you need to make sure that you have sufficient coverage in your insurance plan. The Better Business Bureau recommends three additional coverage options.
- Collision Coverage. This coverage pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision with another driver, regardless of who is at fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage. This coverage will reimburse you if you’re hit by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver. Underinsured motorist coverage applies when an at-fault driver has insufficient insurance to pay for your total loss.
- Replacement Rental Car Coverage. The average time that a car spends in a repair shop after an accident is two weeks. Rental car coverage provides you with a rental car during this time and typically costs only a couple dollars a month to carry.
If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver and have the appropriate coverage to pay for the costs, you are legally entitled to reimbursement. Don’t let your insurance company pay out less than you need and deserve. If you need help negotiating a claim, contact the San Marcos uninsured motorist attorneys at the Kyle Law Firm today.
