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Underinsured Motorists Are Out There: Here’s What To Know Before You’re Hit By One

Two toy cars touching as if they were hitting each other.

The Importance of Uninsured Motorist Coverage

When you're involved in a hit-and-run accident or find out when you're exchanging information that the driver who hit you is uninsured, it may be difficult to know the next steps to take. Although it may seem like you are left to pay for medical expenses out of pocket, there are options to ensure you are protected.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage is an optional policy addition that drivers can obtain to cover:

  • Necessary medical expenses
  • Present and future lost wages
  • Pain and suffering

Although most traditional UM policies are designed for bodily injury, you may consider purchasing additional coverage for property damages accrued in a crash.

Pursuing an Uninsured Motorist Claim

When using UM coverage for a car accident claim, contacting your insurance company as soon as possible after your accident is essential. They may ask you to provide the other driver's information and a police report detailing what happened. Depending on the other driver's insurance status, your provider will determine if moving forward with an uninsured motorist claim is appropriate.

In some cases, the at-fault driver may have insurance but not enough to account for the medical expenses sustained. With these scenarios, there may be an option for Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage that will cover the remaining balance.

What About Medical Payments Coverage?

Medical payments coverage, commonly referred to as "MedPay," is similar to UM/UIM coverage in that it helps you afford medical expenses following a crash. Unlike UM/UIM policies, however, MedPay is not fault-based.

This means that if you are involved in an accident—no matter who is at fault—your MedPay policy will help pay for related medical bills up to the policy limit. If you have both MedPay and health insurance, MedPay may act as secondary coverage, kicking in after your health insurance policy limit has been reached.

Need Assistance? Call (775) 227-2280

Since Nevada is not a no-fault state, you have the right to pursue a claim against a driver who caused you harm. Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. can help ensure this right is protected and work with you throughout the duration of your claim. Schedule a free consultation with a member of our team today to discuss your legal options.

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