When you become involved in a car accident, it can be very traumatic on a personal level and extremely costly on a financial one. It can be even more detrimental if you lack the proper insurance, which means you could be forced to pay for certain costs out of pocket. There are a series of steps you should take to protect yourself and your wallet during the aftermath.
Don’t Admit to Anything Immediately After the Accident
Just because you lack appropriate insurance, doesn’t mean you will be held liable for the accident. However, in many states, it is against the law to drive without liability insurance. If the police do come, they may give you a citation, which can be very costly. However, after an investigation, the police and the insurance company may find that the accident is not your fault, in which case you probably won’t be required to pay.
What if the Accident Was Your Fault?
If the car accident was your fault, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars. If you had insurance, your insurance company would have paid much of these expenses. Since you don’t, the other party has the right to sue you personally for all medical and property costs as well as pain and suffering. It will definitely depend on the severity of the accident and what you are liable for.
Can You Sue the Other Party if it Wasn’t Your Fault?
This depends on the laws in your state. If you are found to not have caused the accident, you are eligible for some compensation if your car needs repairs or you are injured. However certain states, such as California and Michigan, limit the amount you can receive for other costs such as pain and suffering. If you are unsure as to your rights, contact a lawyer.
Contact an Attorney
If you find you cannot work with the other party, then perhaps you should contact an attorney who will look out for your best interests. This person will analyze all the pertinent information, such as any accident reports or witness statements, and decide the appropriate course of action. With an attorney, in many instances they may be able to help you settle with the other party. If not, then they will represent you in a civil court case.
Ultimately, if you become involved in a car accident and you lack insurance, then you could be personally liable for thousands of dollars. Before driving your car again, make sure you find an insurance company that will properly cover you. However, in the short run, find an attorney that can help represent you when trying to financially and physically recover from your accident.
