Filing an Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance Claim in New Orleans
A car accident is stressful. It can feel even worse when the at-fault driver does not have insurance. Unfortunately, this happens more often than many drivers expect.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we help accident victims understand their rights and options. As a trusted New Orleans car accident attorney, our goal is to make uninsured motorist (UM) claims easier to understand. This guide explains how UM coverage works and how to file a claim.
Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you are hit a driver with little or no insurance, two types of coverage may apply.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
UM coverage helps pay for your losses when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all. This coverage can help pay for medical bills and other accident-related damage.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your losses. This coverage help fill the gap between what the other driver’s policy pays and what you are owed.
How Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage Works
UM coverage applies when an uninsured driver causes your accident. In this situation, you file a claim with your own insurance company instead of the other driver’s insurer.
Filing a lawsuit against an uninsured driver is often not practical. Many uninsured drivers do not have the assets needed to pay a court judgment. That is why carrying UM coverage is a smart and protective choice, even if it is not required by law.
How Underinsured Motorist Coverage Works
Underinsured motorist coverage helps when the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low.
For example:
- You accident damages total $40,000
- The at-fault driver only has $25,000 in liability coverage
- You carry $50,000 in underinsured motorist coverage
In this case, you could recover:
- $25,000 from the at-fault driver’s insurance
- $15,000 from your own underinsured motorist coverage
What Does UM/UIM Bodily Injury Coverage Pay For?
Most UM and underinsured motorist policies cover bodily injury losses, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering caused by the accident
In many states, UM coverage can also protect:
- You, as the policyholder
- Family or household memebers
- Anyone driving your car with permission
- Passengers in your vehicle
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage
Property damage is often not included with bodily injury coverage. In most states, you must purchase separate uninsured or underinsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage.
This coverage helps pay for repairs to your vehicle or other damaged property after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Important
Some states require UM coverage. Others do not. However, having enough uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is one of the most affordable ways to protect yourself after a serious accident.
Without it, you may be left paying out of pocket for injuries caused by someone else.
What to Do After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
After an accident, take these steps as soon as possible:
- Report the accident to your insurance company
- Ask how your UM or underinsured coverage applies
- Start the UM claims process
- Follow all policy requirements and deadlines
How to File a UM Insurance Claim
A UM claim works much like a standard insurance claim. The main difference is that the claim is filed with your own insurance company.
If you believe the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, notify your insurer immediately. Delays can affect your claim.
When to Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney
UM insurance claims do not always go smoothly. Insurance companies may delay, undervalue, or deny claims.
Working with an experienced New Orleans car accident attorney can help protect your rights. At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we guide clients through the UM claims process and fight for fair compensation.
Conclusion
Understanding how uninsured motorist claims work is essential after an accident. UM coverage can make the difference between financial recovery and lasting hardship.
At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping you navigate UM insurance claims with confidence. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you move forward.
