In Pennsylvania, every registered vehicle is required by law to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop some drivers from getting behind the wheel without any coverage at all.
So what happens if you’re injured in a car accident caused by someone with no insurance?
Technically, you can sue the driver and the vehicle owner. But in most of these cases, the person without insurance also lacks the assets or income to pay for your injuries. As the saying goes — you can’t get blood from a stone.
How to Protect Yourself Before It Happens
The good news? You can take steps to protect yourself before you’re ever in that situation by adding Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage to your auto insurance policy.
- Uninsured Motorist coverage helps if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance at all. Your own policy steps in to compensate you.
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver has insurance — but not enough to cover your medical bills or damages. Again, your policy fills the gap.
Two Things You Should Check Today
I always advise clients to review their insurance policies and make sure they have these two critical protections in place:
- Full Tort Option – This ensures you retain the right to sue for pain and suffering if you’re seriously injured. Limited Tort might save a few dollars upfront, but it can cost you much more in the long run.
- Adequate UM/UIM Coverage – Make sure your limits are high enough to truly protect you and your family if the worst happens.
If you have any questions about the topic discussed in this article, or any other legal matter, please give us a call at Bononi & Company 724-832-2499.