Getting into an auto accident is the kind of event that turns a great day into one that is stressful. This stress is compounded if the other driver is driving without insurance. Fortunately, there are some simple and effective steps you can take to protect yourself if this happens to you.
1. Call law enforcement
Calling law enforcement to the scene of any car accident is an objective way to record the incident and ensure that a report is filed. If the other driver is uninsured, it’s imperative that you do so.
2. Get the other driver’s information
After you’ve called the police, you can attempt to get the other driver’s contact information and the name of their insurance company if there are no injuries that need to be addressed. It’s at this stage that it might become obvious that he or she doesn’t have insurance after all.
3. Make a claim
At this point, you should have the other driver’s contact information as well as a police report. Having this documentation will make it easier for your insurance company to sort out whether you have uninsured motorist coverage and what you can do if you do not.
4. Take care of any injuries
If you or someone traveling in your vehicle was hurt as the result of the accident, make sure to document everything. Though you might have to pay some of the cost of treatment, it’s possible that you can recoup it later if your insurance covers the expenses.
5. Get your car repaired
Talk to your insurance company about the options you have for getting your car repaired at a Sacramento auto body repair shop. Depending on the type of insurance you have, the cost might be covered even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
