No one wants to get into a car accident, especially knowing that your car insurance rates could increase especially when you are at fault. It’s easy to empathize and understand the other driver’s similar sentiment when he or she was negligent in causing a crash in which you were hurt. You both may feel a strong temptation to resolve the matter without getting an insurance company involved. If the other driver doesn’t want to use insurance, he or she may be offering you compensation that may seem very attractive and even fair. However, there are many risks by not going through the proper claims process that you should be considering when the at-fault driver makes you an offer.
It’s always smart to consult a New Jersey car accident attorney after a car accident that caused injury, especially if you believe it involves negligence on the part of the other driver. This includes any type of accident in which the other driver may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving while distracted by texting or using a device, or may not be insured. An experienced car accident attorney can explain the drawbacks of bypassing an insurance company after a vehicle crash.
Why Doesn’t the Other Driver Want to Use Insurance?
The other driver could have several reasons for not wanting to go through the insurance claims process. Some possibilities include:
Auto Insurance Rate Hike: As mentioned above, many insurers will increase premiums or adjust the driver’s deductible after a collision. The other driver may believe it would be cheaper for them to negotiate and settle directly with you, rather than pay for the ongoing rate hikes.
Hassles and Headaches of the Insurance Claims Process: In some cases, you and/or the other driver might want to avoid the headaches associated with filing a claim, such as filling out forms, talking to an insurance adjuster, and other tasks.
Uninsured Drivers: It’s possible the other driver refused to share insurance information because he or she either has no insurance or the policy will not cover the damage to your vehicle and your medical bills. Driving without auto liability insurance is illegal in most states, but some people do so anyway. When you get into an accident with an uninsured motorist, you must then file an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company. Depending on what type of uninsured motorist coverage you have, your insurance company may be able to provide you with the money needed to pay for the expenses involved.
What to Do if You Cannot Obtain Insurance Information
There are a few steps to take when the other motorist does not want to use insurance after a car accident.
- Call the police, since they have the authority to force the other driver to provide insurance information.
- Seek medical attention right away. You can address the insurance issue after you get essential treatment for your injuries.
- Take pictures, jot down notes, and talk to witnesses.
Contact Brandon J. Broderick, New Jersey Car Accident Attorneys, to Understand Your Options
The key reason to reject another driver’s offer for compensation outside of the claims process is that it’s highly likely you could be under-compensated for your losses. As the victim of an auto accident, you deserve to get the maximum amount of compensation for the expenses involved. At Brandon J. Broderick, we help our clients get back on their feet through compassion, legal expertise, and a commitment to client care. Contact us today for a free consultation.