“What if the Value of My Car Accident Claim Exceeds My Uninsured Motorist Policy?”

What happens if the driver that caused the accident is uninsured and the resulting damage exceeds the limit of your uninsured motorist policy?

The harsh reality of life is that sometimes regardless of how much you plan and prepare, there are just some things that are out of our control. Such is the case with car accidents. You may take all the right precautions to stay safe: drive under the speed limit, drive carefully and defensively, and keep up with your vehicle maintenance. Even so, you can still get hit by a distracted or reckless driver. 

However, you’ve prepared for this situation too, and purchased more than the minimum car insurance required in Missouri.  What happens if the driver that caused the accident is uninsured and the resulting damage exceeds the limit of your uninsured motorist policy?

Let’s explore your options. 

Car Insurance Requirements in Missouri

Drivers in Missouri are required by law to carry some form of auto insurance. The minimum level of coverage required is: 

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $10,000 per accident for property

Drivers in Missouri are also required to carry uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident.

What If My Claim Exceeds the Limit of My Uninsured Policy?

Some drivers purchase more than the minimum required. But, even when they do, the value of their car accident claim can exceed the limit of their policy. If the at-fault driver was also uninsured, then you can’t file a claim against their insurance company.

Although this may seem like an impossible situation, there still are a few options that you can explore to get compensation for your damages and injuries. 

For example, you can use your medical insurance to pay for some of your bills. Collision coverage can also come in handy and can help you cover some of the repairs needed for the car. 

There’s also the option of suing the at-fault party, although this one can be a bit tricky. Most people that don’t purchase auto insurance do so because they cannot afford it. So, if they cannot afford to pay a few hundred dollars for insurance, they probably don’t have the funds to cover your medical bills either. However, if they failed to purchase auto insurance out of negligence, then you might have a case on your hand. Discuss this with your St. Louis car accident lawyer and decide the best course of action under these circumstances. 

Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer About Your Claim

It can be incredibly frustrating to have to deal with this situation when you’ve been a responsible driver. If you have been involved in a St. Louis car accident, it’s important to look for a lawyer who has experience with similar cases and can help you file a successful claim.