Alabama state law requires all vehicle drivers to carry auto insurance. But, research shows that many Alabama drivers choose not to get insured or are underinsured. This can make it difficult if you have been in an auto accident with one of those drivers.
Typically, if you are in an auto accident and the other driver is at fault, you can file a claim against their insurance to receive compensation. But, if the driver is uninsured, getting compensation could be more difficult.
If you have had a car accident with an uninsured/underinsured motorist, there are two possible ways for you to recover compensation for your injuries.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
Alabama state law mandates that its drivers carry the following three types of auto insurance coverage:
- Bodily Injury Liability coverage per person (minimum $25,000)
- Bodily Injury Liability coverage per accident (minimum $50,000)
- Property Damage Liability coverage (minimum $25,000)
Alabama law also requires that all auto insurance companies automatically offer policyholders uninsured/underinsured motorist benefits with their liability policies (minimum UM/UIM coverage same as the liability coverage). But, the law allows policyholders to choose to opt out of the UM/UIM coverage. If you have UM/UIM coverage, you can make a first-party compensation claim through your own insurance policy when in an accident with an uninsured driver.
But, just because you are filing a claim with your insurance company does not mean your claim will be paid quickly and in full. Unfortunately, insurance companies often balk at paying full claims, even with a UM/UIM claim from their own policyholder. It could help to have an experienced Alabama car accident lawyer working on your behalf to fight the insurance company for the compensation you deserve.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you do not have UM/UIM coverage, you could file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.
A personal injury claim may help you recover compensation for the following:
- Medical costs
- Loss of earning potential
- Physical pain
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
- Property loss or damage
Working with an experienced Alabama car accident lawyer could help you maximize your recovery in a personal injury lawsuit. Brock & Stout’s accident attorneys have over 20 years of experience helping clients get the compensation they need after an uninsured motorist accident. Contact us for a free evaluation to see if we can help you.