What to Do if Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Tennessee

Driving on Tennessee roads comes with a risk you may not have considered: sharing the road with uninsured drivers. Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but discovering the at-fault driver has no insurance adds a layer of complexity and worry. How will you pay for your medical bills and vehicle repairs?

Fortunately, you have options. Bill Easterly & Associates will explain the essential steps to take after an uninsured car accident to protect your rights and seek the compensation you need.

Immediate Steps After an Uninsured Car Accident

What you do in the moments following a collision is critical. If an uninsured driver hits you, take these actions at the scene to build a strong foundation for your claim.

Step 1: Call 911

Your first priority is safety. Report the accident to the police immediately. An officer will create an official police report, which is a crucial piece of evidence. Make sure to tell the responding officer that the other driver is uninsured so it can be noted in the report.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

While you wait for help to arrive, collect as much information as possible. Use your phone to:

• Take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, any property damage, and visible injuries.
• Get the other driver’s details. Ask for their name, phone number, and driver’s license number. Even without insurance, their personal information is vital.
• Speak to witnesses. If anyone saw the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Their testimony can support your version of events.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical evaluation documents your injuries and links them directly to the accident, which is essential for any claim.

Filing a Claim for Compensation

Once you have addressed your immediate safety, it’s time to explore your options for recovering damages. In Tennessee, you have two primary paths.

Use Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

The most reliable way to get compensation after being hit by an uninsured driver is to file a claim with your own insurance company through your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Tennessee law requires insurance companies to offer this coverage, and it is designed for this exact situation.

Your UM policy can cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle damage

Contact your insurance provider to report the accident and begin the claims process. An experienced attorney can help you navigate this process and ensure you receive a fair settlement from your insurer.

Sue the Uninsured Driver

You have the legal right to file a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver. If you win, the court can order them to pay for your damages.

However, this option comes with a significant challenge. A person who drives without insurance often lacks the financial assets to pay a legal judgment. While you may win the case, collecting the money you are owed can be difficult or impossible. It is also important to remember that Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, so you must act quickly.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve

Navigating an uninsured car accident claim can be overwhelming. You don’t have to face it alone. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your options, deal with your insurance company, and fight for the maximum compensation available.

At Bill Easterly & Associates, we have helped countless clients in Tennessee get the justice they deserve. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.