A shocking percentage of drivers are uninsured

One of the most serious problems facing car owners is the prevalence of uninsured and underinsured drivers using our public roadways. And while it is a legal requirement in almost every state to carry at least some measure of auto insurance, far too many people opt to hit the streets lacking coverage. This poses serious problems for those who are in accidents caused by uninsured drivers. If a liable driver lacks coverage, then it is the victim who is left to cover all the expenses generated by the accident.

An estimate released by the Insurance Research Council revealed that in 2014 almost 13 percent of motorists lacked insurance. Think about what this means; around one out of every eight drivers with whom you share the road does not have insurance.

But why would anyone be so reckless as to drive without at least liability coverage? Well, as you may expect, many drivers find insurance cost-prohibitive. In fact, the Financial Responsibility and Insurance Committee conducted a study in which 82 percent of uninsured drivers surveyed stated they could not afford a policy or that their cars were not being used or were inoperable.

So what can you do in an effort to protect yourself from the financial fallout of being in an accident with an uninsured driver? The surest move you can make is to add uninsured/underinsured driver coverage to your policy. It may not be fair that you have to pay a little more every month, but that extra coverage could be a real lifesaver should you need it.

And if you have the misfortune of being in an accident with an uninsured driver and you have the extra coverage, the insurance company should honor your claim. If they fail to do so, an experienced uninsured claim attorney could intercede on your behalf to help you pursue appropriate compensation.

Category:

• Uninsured/underinsured Motorist Accidents