Most states have mandatory minimum auto insurance laws, but some people still drive as uninsured drivers. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that in a recent study, 13%, or one in eight drivers in the U.S. is operating a vehicle without insurance. Many such drivers cannot afford the cost of car insurance, which makes it difficult to collect damages after an accident. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself if you have been involved in a wreck with an uninsured driver.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist protection is a type of auto insurance designed to protect you if a driver without insurance causes a car collision. Hit and run accidents are also covered. This coverage is optional in most states but required in others. If the driver who caused the crash has no car insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage will kick in to cover your damages, up to your policy limits.