Dayton Uninsured and Underinsured Accident Attorney
When you are in a car accident in Dayton, one of the first steps you expect to take is to exchange insurance information with the other driver involved. This insurance can help you recover from your injuries and property damage. However, what do you do when the other driver does not have enough insurance to cover your damages – or no insurance at all?
If you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, Elk & Elk can help. Our attorneys have the knowledge and the track record necessary to help you successfully file your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Why Choose Elk & Elk?
- Our attorneys maintain an open line of communication with each of our clients during every step of your case. You will always stay informed of any new updates.
- We operate on a contingency fee basis for maximum affordability. You do not pay any up-front costs and we only take legal fees if we win your case.
- Our firm understands you may be healing from your injuries. We will make any house calls or hospital visits that are necessary.
Ohio Car Insurance Requirements
In the state of Ohio, all drivers must carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage to legally operate their vehicles. Since Ohio is a fault car insurance state, drivers must pay for all of the damages caused by accidents that they cause. Without this insurance, they will have to pay for these damages out of pocket.
If a person does not meet the minimum amounts of coverage, he or she is an underinsured driver. If the driver does not have any insurance coverage at all, he or she is an uninsured driver. Ohio’s minimum car insurance requirements include the following coverage amounts.
- $25,000 for any property damage per accident that the driver causes
- $50,000 for all injuries or deaths per accident that the driver causes
- $25,000 for the injury or death of one person in an accident that the driver causes
Driving without insurance in Ohio can result in the suspension of a driver’s license from 90 days to a full year, proof of compliance requirements, vehicle and license plate impoundment, and license reinstatement fees between $75 to $500.
Protecting Yourself from Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists
While the driver at fault for your accident is responsible for paying for your damages, an uninsured or underinsured driver provides you with very few options. The law states that he or she will have to pay out of pocket, but the likelihood that you could see that money soon is very slim. To protect yourself from uninsured and underinsured motorists, consider investing in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage from your insurance company.
This optional insurance policy allows you to protect yourself against these motorists and receive the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. With this coverage, you can file the claim with your insurance company and receive the money you need to recover. The insurance company will bill the other motorist for these costs, helping you avoid damage to your monthly premiums. However, the company could deny your claim for a number of reasons – for best results, hire Elk and Elk’s Dayton attorney for uninsured and underinsured accidents to assist you with your claim.
What If You Do Not Have UIM Coverage?
If you do not have UIM coverage at the time of your accident, you have limited options for compensation. Another route you can take is to file a personal injury lawsuit against the uninsured motorist responsible for your injuries and collect compensation through civil court. However, it may take a long time to see this compensation. After getting into an accident with an uninsured driver, contact Elk & Elk to discuss your legal options.
Contact Elk & Elk Today
Do you need help with your uninsured and underinsured driver accident in Dayton? Our uninsured and underinsured attorneys at Dayton, Ohio can help you with your insurance claim or lawsuit. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation at our Dayton offices.