Car accidents are bad enough without adding extra issues to them. However, that is often the case when a motor vehicle wreck involves an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uninsured motorists are drivers who don’t have car insurance. Underinsured motorists have auto insurance, but their coverage limits aren’t high enough to pay for damages and medical treatment for injuries that result from accidents they cause.
When an uninsured or underinsured motorist is at fault for a car accident, those on the wrong side of the collision can be forced to suffer twice over. This is because in addition to the vehicle damage and injuries victims suffered in the wreck, they can be left without the financial help they need after the incident because the driver who caused the crash doesn’t have the insurance coverage necessary to cover the costs.
Types of Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can be a lifesaver. Drivers can add underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage to their existing auto insurance policy.
There are two types of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage:
- Bodily Injury – This type of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will cover your medical bills and loss of income (if you must miss work because of accident related injuries) if you’re in a motor vehicle accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Uninsured and underinsured bodily injury policies also cover any passengers in your vehicle at the time of the incident.
- Damage – Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will cover damage to your vehicle if you’re in an auto accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. This can include covering the cost of repairs, a rental car if necessary, and other out-of-pocket expenses related to the wreck.
In West Virginia, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory. Drivers are required to carry both uninsured motorist bodily injury and property damage coverage. However, drivers are not required to have underinsured motorist coverage in West Virginia.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident and the driver who caused it is uninsured or underinsured, whether you have underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage or not, you may require the help of an experienced car accident lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the help you need and deserve if you are the victim of another driver’s recklessness, including compensation for current and future medical costs, loss of income, and living expenses.
Since 1931, Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner, PLLC has been protecting the rights of injury victims and their families in West Virginia. Our experienced car accident attorneys can guide you through the process of holding those responsible for your pain and suffering accountable. We have a long history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
Give us a call at (304) 713-2014 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyers in West Virginia.
