What Happens If I Get in a Car Accident Before I Purchase Insurance?

We try to be as safe as possible when we get behind the wheel of a car but, sometimes, accidents happen. That’s why it’s important to have an insurance policy like sr22 insurance wisconsin in place to protect you in the event of those incidents. However, sometimes we may choose not to sign on for a plan for a litany of personal reasons. If you find yourself in these circumstances, it’s important to know what to do next. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

No-fault States

It’s important to remember that just because you’re an uninsured driver, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically the at-fault driver in a car accident. The cost and consequences of driving without auto insurance vary depending on where you are in the United States. Some states have no-fault laws, meaning that each driver can file a claim with their own insurance company to receive coverage for injury claims without having to determine who caused the wreck. You still wouldn’t be able to file an insurance claim with the other driver’s insurance company.

Depending on your state’s laws, you could face a hefty bill if you’re uninsured and get into a car crash. Most states will allow any liability insurance that you may have will be allowed to cover medical expenses or auto damage after an accident. In a no-fault state, the other driver’s car insurance would typically kick in to cover medical treatment and property damage. This could allow for a fair settlement, provided the accident is not resulting from a drunk driver or one under the influence of drugs.

Legal Action

The services of an auto accident attorney can help you whether or not you’re at fault in a car wreck. It depends on where in the U.S. the accident happened in some cases. Certain states are “no-pay, no-play” states, meaning you can’t generally sue for any damages that can’t be quantified by a dollar amount. That means you’re unable to sue for things like pain and suffering or mental anguish as an uninsured party. For example, in Louisiana, you can’t sue for the first $15,000 of personal injury claims or the first $25,000 of property damage.

Injured sustained in car accidents may require multiple surgeries and other forms of ongoing care. Accident attorneys will work to fight for an accident victim’s rights to get maximum compensation regardless of coverage. If you’re involved in an auto accident, it’s important to take steps to protect your legal rights. Be sure to take down information about what happened, taking photos of the accident scene. This will help an experienced attorney to better form your case, especially if you’re preparing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Future Troubles

An auto accident case could provide issues down the line for your finances as an uninsured party. Depending on the type of injury or the cause of the accident, you could be dealing with all of the expenses out of your own wallet. This could leave you struggling to find a new car if you don’t have the money to afford a new one. Be sure to explore “auto auctions near me” online. This may help you find an accessible ride during this difficult time.

If you do end up exploring auto insurance for your next car, you may see a direct impact on your rates because of a serious crash or pre-existing lack of insurance policies. This depends on the state that your vehicle is registered in, as well as the state where the car accident takes place. Be sure to take advantage of any options as an uninsured party to make sure that you also have the personal attention to get through this scenario.