Call Us atIn Bothell, you rely on the responsible driver’s car insurance to cover your expenses after an accident. This means getting compensation for uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Bothell can be very difficult. If you were injured in an accident involving an uninsured driver, a talented car accident attorney could help you determine your options so you can get as much compensation as possible.
When Is a Driver Consider Uninsured or Underinsured?
Washington uses an at-fault car insurance system. This means the at-fault person’s insurance pays for the injured person’s expenses. Washington RCW 46.29.090 requires drivers to have at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage, and $10,000 in property damage coverage. Drivers can choose to have more coverage, but many do not because those policies are more expensive. Drivers might also violate this law by driving without insurance coverage. If a driver in Bothell causes an accident and does not have car insurance, they can face legal consequences, including a fine and a license suspension. A driver who causes an accident and does not have enough insurance to cover the injured person’s expenses would be considered underinsured. There are no penalties for this as long as the person has state minimum coverage, but the responsible driver might need to pay damages out of pocket.
How Can an Injured Driver Get Compensation After an Accident With an Underinsured Driver?
Drivers can choose to add uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to their policies. These cover the policyholder’s expenses if they are injured in a car accident by an uninsured/underinsured driver in Bothell. If the injured person has this type of coverage, they should file a claim with their insurer as soon as possible after the accident. This is often the easiest way to get compensation. If the responsible driver has insurance but is underinsured, the injured person should still file a claim to get as much compensation from the insurance company as possible.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the injured party may need to file a lawsuit to seek compensation after a car accident in Bothell. Through a court award or pre-trial settlement, they may recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover measurable costs such as medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life. However, even if the court grants compensation, the at-fault driver may be unable to pay. Uninsured and underinsured drivers often lack the financial resources to cover damages. If the responsible party has some assets but not enough to cover all expenses, the injured person may need to consider accepting a smaller settlement.
Discuss Your Uninsured/Underinsured Car Accident Case With a Bothell Lawyer Today
Uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Bothell can be tricky. Even if it is very clear that the other driver is responsible for the accident, they may not have the money to pay your damages if they are uninsured. A lawyer can help you navigate this situation, including assessing all of your options, negotiating with an underinsured driver’s insurance company, or filing a lawsuit. Libbey Law has the expertise to support you through this process. Contact us to discuss your case today.
