Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accidents

Respected Savannah Personal Injury Attorneys Aggressively Representing the Interests of Car Accident Victims

A crash involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can leave victims facing serious financial hardship. Without proper coverage, injured individuals often struggle to pay for medical care, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. While some may assume they have no options, Suthers & Harper fights for those involved in car accidents where insurance coverage falls short. Pursuing compensation after a crash with an uninsured driver presents challenges, but legal options are available. A Georgia uninsured/underinsured motorist accident lawyer works to secure damages through personal insurance policies, legal claims, or other avenues. If a fatal accident resulted in the loss of a loved one or another driver’s reckless actions caused serious injuries, taking legal action is essential. Contact Suthers & Harper to discuss your case and explore the best path forward.

Georgia’s Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Laws

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11) requires all auto insurance providers to offer Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, but drivers are not required to purchase it. This optional coverage serves as a financial safeguard when an at-fault driver lacks insurance or does not carry enough to cover all damages. Unfortunately, many drivers reject this coverage without realizing how vital it can be after a crash.

The state offers two forms of UM/UIM coverage: add-on coverage and reduced-by coverage. Add-on coverage allows victims to combine their policy limits with the at-fault driver’s insurance, while reduced-by coverage only pays for damages exceeding the negligent driver’s policy limits. Without this protection, accident victims may struggle to recover full compensation. A Georgia uninsured motorist accident lawyer reviews policies to determine available options for recovery.

Challenges in Recovering Compensation After an Uninsured Driver Crash

Uninsured/underinsured motorist accident claims often involve disputes with insurance providers. While policyholders expect their coverage to provide financial relief, insurers frequently delay or deny claims to protect profits. Victims may face low settlement offers, claim rejections, or accusations that their injuries are not as severe as reported.

Even when the at-fault driver has some insurance, Georgia’s minimum liability limits may not be enough to cover serious injuries. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs often exceed available coverage. Victims with significant injuries may need to explore third-party liability claims or personal lawsuits to bridge the financial gap. A Georgia uninsured motorist accident attorney helps clients pursue every possible avenue for compensation.

When an Uninsured Driver Causes a Fatal Crash

Georgia recorded 1,797 traffic fatalities in the last reporting year, with many involving drivers who lacked proper insurance. Families left behind after these tragedies often face emotional devastation and unexpected financial burdens. Surviving relatives may file a wrongful death claim to seek damages for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

The legal process becomes even more complicated when the at-fault driver has no financial assets. In these situations, securing compensation often depends on whether the victim carried UM/UIM coverage. A Georgia fatal car accident lawyer can assess legal options, ensuring that families receive the financial support they need after a tragic loss.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accidents Involving Pedestrians and Cyclists

Pedestrians and bicyclists face a heightened risk when struck by an uninsured driver. Georgia saw 345 pedestrian deaths in 2022, a 12% increase from the prior year, with the majority occurring on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or higher. Bicyclists also face increasing dangers, with 29 fatalities recorded in 2022, nearly double the previous year’s total.

Pedestrians and cyclists without auto insurance can seek compensation through their own UM/UIM coverage or a household member’s policy. However, insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts, arguing that the victim bears some responsibility. A Georgia uninsured/underinsured motorist accident lawyer helps injured pedestrians and cyclists fight for fair compensation.

Pursuing Compensation Beyond Insurance Coverage

Not all uninsured motorist accidents involve individuals who lack financial resources. Some at-fault drivers own valuable assets that may be pursued through a personal injury lawsuit. Additionally, third-party liability claims may provide another path to compensation.

If an impaired driver caused the crash, a bar or restaurant that overserved them could be held accountable under Georgia’s dram shop laws. In cases involving rideshare drivers, Uber and Lyft may provide coverage if the driver was logged into the app during the crash. A Georgia Uber/Lyft accident lawyer can evaluate whether corporate insurance applies and challenge denials from rideshare companies.

Speak with a Georgia Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accident Lawyer

An accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver can create financial uncertainty, but victims have legal options. Suthers & Harper fights to secure full compensation for those harmed by reckless drivers. If you or a loved one was injured in an uninsured motorist accident, contact Suthers & Harper for a free consultation. You can reach our Savannah car accident lawyers by calling 800-320-2384 or through our secure online contact form.