Holding an underinsured driver liable for their negligent actions is tricky. While the person has insurance, it is not enough to cover your damages, leaving you wondering how you will ever pay for the excess bills. Since many underinsured and uninsured drivers are on the road, insurance companies have options available to drivers who suffer harm and loss from an accident with these irresponsible drivers. You can tap into several options depending on your policy and other factors. When you initially purchase your insurance policy, be sure that you check out every additional coverage option and pay the extra few dollars for the one you think works best for you.
Philadelphia has no-fault insurance
Pennsylvania is a no-fault car insurance state meaning that you can access your insurance policy to cover any car accident expenses and damage. Your policy will pay for your medical bills. It can sometimes be faster to go through your own insurance company instead of trying to fight with the other driver’s policy. However, while it is faster, that does not mean it is best in your particular circumstances. Before filing a claim, speak with a Philadelphia car accident lawyer from Kwartler Manus, LLC.
Underinsured motorist coverage
One of the other coverage options insurance companies offers drivers is underinsured motorist coverage. This option is intended to take over when the other driver has low policy limits, and they do not cover the expenses you incur from the accident. Pennsylvania does not require this option, but it is a great coverage option. Many Philly drivers do not have state minimum coverage or do not have insurance. Adding this option to your policy gives peace of mind that you are covered if you are involved in a Philadelphia car accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver.
UM coverage has one caveat; many policies will not allow drivers to have more than the current policy limit. So if you have $70,000 worth of liability coverage, this will also be the amount of coverage you have for an accident with an underinsured motorist. Also, remember that property damage and medical expense coverage are separate. So you can also add uninsured motorist property damage coverage depending on the insurance company. While these coverage options are available, not every insurance company works the same. Review your car insurance policy and discuss your legal options with a Philadelphia car accident attorney.
Your health insurance
In some instances, an injured driver will need to use their health insurance plan to pay for medical expenses after a car accident. Many accident victims do not want to use their health insurance policy due to the deductibles and restrictions. Unfortunately, when a driver does not have sufficient insurance coverage, this option becomes a reality. The alternative is to pay for these expenses out of pocket while your injury claim resolves. Tapping into your car or health insurance plan is never something you want to do after an accident. A Philadelphia personal injury attorney can offer advice on which policy to use and when after an accident with an underinsured motorist.
File a personal injury lawsuit
After an underinsured motorist accident, one final option is to file a lawsuit against the negligent driver. The one possible downside to filing a lawsuit against an underinsured driver is they do not have the assets or collateral to cover your expenses. It can take them the rest of their life to pay you for your medical expenses. However, this does not mean a lawsuit is unsuccessful. Each case varies, and you need an experienced attorney to decide which way to go after reviewing the details of your claim.
Can Kwartler Manus, LLC help?
The answer is, yes, Kwartler Manus, LLC can help hold an underinsured driver accountable for their negligence. We have experience handling underinsured motorists’ cases and know all of the strategies to use to get you the results you need. Use our contact form or call us at (267) 457-5570 today.