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Uninsured & Underinsured: What Do These Terms Mean and How Do They Affect My Ability To Get Compensation?

Dec 17, 2021 - Car Accidents by

Imagine being injured in a car accident, and while recovering from your injuries, you find out the party that hit you does not have any insurance, or inadequate insurance, to cover the costs of your injuries. For many people injured on Tuscaloosa roadways, this is a sad reality. So how does this happen, and what are your options when it happens to you? Our Tuscaloosa injury attorney explains. 

Uninsured & Underinsured Insurance Explained

Alabama drivers are required to carry automobile insurance in case they are involved in an accident. The minimum amount drivers can have and still be in compliance with the law is:

  • $25,000 bodily injury liability per person; this means that the insurance company will pay a maximum of $25,000 for any single person that is involved in an accident caused by the insured
  • $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident; this means that the insurance company will pay a maximum of $50,000 for any accident caused by the insured
  • $25,000 property damage per accident; this means the insurance company will pay a maximum of $25,000 in property damage per accident 

While these are the minimum amounts required by law, the injuries and damages incurred in an accident often exceed these thresholds. 

Options When Injured By An Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist

When you have been injured by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you have two options to pursue the compensation you deserve. 

Filing Suit Against the Other Driver

One way to recover for the damages not covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance, or for all damages when the at-fault driver does not have insurance, is by filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver personally. Unfortunately, if the driver only has the minimum amount of insurance required or no insurance at all, it is likely due to the fact that they could not afford to purchase a policy with more extensive coverage. This means that even if you were successful when suing them, it is doubtful you would ever actually recover any money. A Tuscaloosa injury lawyer can help review your particular circumstances to decide if it is worth pursuing a lawsuit in your case.

Pursuing Coverage Through Your Own Insurance Company

When purchasing automobile insurance, you are given the option to purchase additional coverage in case you are ever involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. This insurance is created for this exact situation and can help you recover the money you need to pay for your recuperation and repair of your motor vehicle. If you are not sure if you have this type of coverage, a Tuscaloosa injury lawyer can go over your policy with you.

Speak with a Tuscaloosa Injury Attorney at Cross & Smith, LLC

If you or a loved one has been injured in Alabama, contact Cross & Smith, LLC. Our attorneys are experienced in helping injured people recover the compensation they are due. You may reach us by calling 877-791-0618 or via our contact page.

Hear What Our Clients Have To Say

"After my husband was injured in a burn accident at work, we felt the accident could have been avoided. I was not sure where to start, but after careful research, we met with Justin Smith and shared our experience. From day one, we felt we were in good hands. Justin and Dell explained everything and kept us informed from start to finish. It was a complicated case that took an outside the box approach. Both Justin and Dell made us feel like part of the team."
Posted By: Rhonda Moore

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