What If The Other Driver Is Uninsured?

On average, 130 motor vehicle accidents occur in Oregon every day. Oregon law requires that every person who operates a vehicle on a public road must carry valid insurance. See ORS Chapter 806. Unfortunately, despite the requirements of Oregon law, many accidents are caused by those who violate the law by getting behind the wheel while uninsured.

The lawyers at the Gatti Law Firm are often contacted by persons injured in uninsured motorist accidents. Many of these victims fear the worst. However, in most instances, any concerns can be quickly quelled.

Will My Insurance Cover the Damage?

Absent rare exceptions, as long as the person injured by an uninsured driver has car insurance of their own, or was in a vehicle covered by a valid Oregon insurance policy, then the injured person has the opportunity to make a claim under the Uninsured Motorist provisions of the insurance policy.

Oregon law requires that all private passenger motor vehicles have Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect against irresponsible, uninsured drivers.

This coverage can be used to:

• Fix your vehicle
• Pay for your medical expenses
• Satisfy your lost wages
• Compensate for any pain, suffering, and inconvenience

Essentially, the uninsured motorist insurance fills the shoes of the absent insurance policy the at-fault driver should have had.

How Should I Handle an Accident with an Uninsured Driver?

There are specific steps that you should take if you have been in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance. The steps are essentially the same as with any other type of accident, but there are slight differences. The steps are as follows:

1. Call the police to the scene of the accident
2. Exchange information with all other parties
3. Obtain medical help for yourself and all injured parties
4. Talk to your attorney

When it comes to step 4, we encourage to leave the conversation with your insurance company to your attorney. This can protect you and help you get the best results out of your claim. Especially because you may be paying the deductible for your medical care out of pocket because the lack of insurance by the other party.

Put Over 45 Years of Experience to Work For You

If you have been injured by an uninsured driver, or if you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, the Oregon car accident attorneys at the Gatti Law Firm are here to answer your questions and help put your mind at ease.

Please do not hesitate to contact our lawyers at (503) 543-1114 for a free consultation.