Hagerstown Uninsured Driver Accident Attorney
Car accidents are always stressful, but the situation becomes even more challenging when the at-fault driver lacks insurance. Unfortunately, accidents involving uninsured drivers are not uncommon in Maryland, where over 15% of drivers fail to carry even the minimum amount of liability insurance required by law. If you’ve been hurt in a collision with an uninsured driver, it’s essential to understand your rights and legal options. At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, our Hagerstown uninsured driver accident attorneys are here to help you handle these complex situations and secure the compensation you deserve.
Maryland’s Auto Liability Insurance Laws
Maryland law requires all drivers to carry minimum levels of liability insurance to cover $30,000 in personal injury per person, up to $60,000 per accident. However, not all drivers comply. In some cases, an uninsured driver might cause an accident, leaving victims with limited options for recovery. Fortunately, Maryland law also mandates that insurance policies include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage for both bodily injury and property damage, which can protect you in such situations.
UM coverage provides compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver is uninsured. However, even with UM coverage, recovering compensation can be a complicated process, often requiring legal assistance to deal with insurance companies. Insurance companies often have strict timelines to notify the police and the insurer, and they may look for any way to devalue or deny your claim, including saying that you were responsible in any way for contributing to the accident. Getting legal counsel on your side at the earliest opportunity is critical to the success of your claim.
Steps to Take After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver in Hagerstown, taking the right steps can help protect your claim:
- Call the Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement. The police report will document the incident and note whether the other driver has insurance.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect the contact information of witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor immediately. Medical records are critical to any personal injury claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident and let them know the at-fault driver is uninsured.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney: An attorney can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the maximum compensation under your UM coverage.
Challenges in UM Claims
Although UM coverage is designed to protect you, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Insurers may argue that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident. In Maryland, any amount of fault on your part can defeat your claim. Also, insurance adjusters may downplay the extent of your injuries or property damage. An experienced car accident attorney knows how to build and present a strong and compelling case for full compensation. Insurance companies may also try to drag out the process, hoping you will settle for less than you deserve. A lawyer can also ensure your claim is resolved at the earliest opportunity.
An experienced Hagerstown personal injury lawyer at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP can advocate on your behalf, ensuring your insurance company treats you fairly and compensates you appropriately.
Why Choose Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP?
At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, we understand the stress and financial burdens caused by accidents with uninsured drivers. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling personal injury and uninsured motorist claims for residents of Hagerstown and the surrounding areas. We are committed to conducting thorough investigations to establish liability, negotiating assertively with insurance companies to maximize your compensation, and taking your case to court when necessary to fight for your rights. Our team takes pride in offering personalized legal support and keeping you informed every step of the way.
Contact Us for Help With Your Uninsured Motorist Accident Claim in Hagerstown
If you’ve been injured in an accident with an uninsured driver in Hagerstown, don’t face the legal process alone. Contact Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP today at 800-827-2667 to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Let our experienced personal injury attorneys be your advocates in holding uninsured drivers accountable.