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    Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Georgia? Here’s What to Do.

    Posted on - Wednesday, January 27, 2016 under Car Accident

    Georgia law requires that all drivers carry automobile liability insurance to provide compensation for any injuries or damage they cause to others while behind the wheel. As is the case with most laws, however, not everyone complies. Even though Georgia has one of the lowest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation, over 11% of Georgia drivers have no auto insurance whatsoever.

    Even when the other driver does have liability coverage, it may be the minimal amount which may not even come close to covering the damages you have suffered.

    When you are hit by an uninsured or an underinsured driver in Georgia and want to seek compensation, are you out of luck?

    Your odds of getting any compensation from the uninsured are likely minimal. Most drivers who skip out on getting insurance do so because they lack the money to pay for it, which means they also lack any money or assets to pay for any judgment you obtain against them.

    As such, the answer to the question above largely depends on whether or not you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of your car insurance package. While such coverage is not required in Georgia, insurance companies are required to offer it to you.

    Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can provide you with coverage not only for damages caused by drivers lacking sufficient insurance, it can also cover hit-and-run accidents.

    If you have such coverage and are in an accident with an uninsured driver or have been injured in a hit and run, you will want to make a claim with your insurer as soon as possible. It is important to remember, however, that your insurer is not necessarily your “good neighbor” or “on your side.” They may attempt to deny or minimize the amount they will pay on your claim. For example, your insurer may:

    • deny the other driver was responsible
    • blame another party for the accident
    • deny that your injuries were caused by the accident
    • argue that your injuries are not serious enough to qualify for compensation under your policy provisions

    For these reasons, it is important that you consult with an experienced auto accident attorney if you have been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. A good car accident lawyer will negotiate with your insurer on your behalf to ensure that they meet their obligations under the policy you have paid good money for.

    At The Parian Law Firm in metro Atlanta, Georgia, we represent injury victims exclusively and are committed to getting justice and compensation for our clients. Please contact us at (770) 727-5550 or chat live online with a member of our staff today.