Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorneys Advocating for Drivers Across Alabama

2015 saw Alabama ranked as the 6th highest state in terms of the number of uninsured drivers, with 18.4% falling under the banner. Your chances of being caught up in a scrape with an uninsured or underinsured driver is sadly rather high, and the consequences can be devastating. These complications can make an already painful scenario more challenging, and it is crucial that you have reliable, trustworthy legal advice to turn to.

What Are the Legal Requirements Surrounding Insurance in Alabama?

Alabama law states that motor insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers. However, there is no current law which requires motorists to be covered against an uninsured driver.  All non-commercial vehicle operators are legally obliged to take out auto insurance which must meet certain minimum requirements, according to the Alabama Mandatory Liability Insurance law:

• $25000 for bodily injury or death per person
• $50000 total for bodily injury or death per accident
• $25000 for property damage

State legislation states that insurers may not sell any auto liability policy which does not include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage must also be a minimum of $25000. Obtaining this minimum allows the majority of damages to be taken care of in the event that you are hit by a driver with inadequate coverage.

There is, however, a loophole. While the clause is a mandatory aspect of every policy sold, there is no obligation for drivers to accept this coverage. Motorists have the option to waive the requirement, though this can make it difficult (if not impossible) to cover any losses if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Investing in the pricier policy now could save you a significant sum if you find yourself involved in an accident later.

What Action Can I Take if I Am Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver?

Being involved in an auto accident can leave the victim with permanent, life-changing injuries and, in some cases, may even prove fatal. There are three main courses of action which can be taken: filing a claim with the insurance company, filing a third-party claim with the at-fault party insurance provider, or filing a personal injury lawsuit.

In some incidences, you may be entitled to bring about a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver. This can be an alternative course of action to pursue in the event that the other party does not have adequate insurance but has been negligent.

In the event that you are successful in pursuing a personal injury claim, you may be able to obtain damages and compensation to cover key expenses. These can include:

• Medical Expenses: including those incurred at the time of the incident and any long-lasting damage or costs which may occur. This could include hospital stays, physiotherapy, surgery, ambulance calls, medication, etc.
• Loss of Earnings: in the event that you are unable to work following the accident, you may be able to claim for loss of earnings. In addition, if the injuries suffered in the accident mean that you are unable to return to the same role or that your earning capacity is reduced, these costs can also be included.
• Pain and Suffering: this includes mental and psychological trauma.
• Adaptations: those involving your home, car or workplace, if they are required as a result of your injuries.

What is the ‘At-Fault’ System?

Anyone involved in an auto accident needs to consider the concept of fault, and this can have a huge impact on who bears financial responsibility and is liable to pay damages. Alabama law states that the person deemed to be at fault for causing the accident is legally required to compensate any victims (usually achieved through the insurance company). This means that you are free to pursue costs and damages from the other driver once they have been declared at fault.

How Can Pharr & Associates Injury Attorneys Help?

In the event that you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it is vital that you access reliable, experienced legal advice as soon as possible. Our team can advise you on the best course of action for your case and work hard to ensure that you receive the justice and financial compensation you are entitled to. Get in touch today by calling (205) 516-037, and Pharr & Associates Injury Attorneys can help.