The state of Tennessee might have mandatory minimum coverage requirements when it comes to car insurance, but that does not mean everyone abides by these regulations. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, Tennessee has one of the highest percentages of uninsured motorists in the country.
In 2015, 20 percent of drivers in the state did not have car insurance. That means the chances of getting into a collision with someone who does not have adequate coverage are fairly high. Tennessee may be a “fault” state, but if the liable party does not have any car insurance, it is unrealistic to expect him or her to pay for the damages.
Fortunately, there is another way to pursue compensation following a collision with an uninsured motorist. When your auto insurance provider offers you uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, you have the right to reject it by submitting a written waiver; however, adding it to your policy could end up protecting your family’s financial security some day.
If you were hurt in an auto wreck with an uninsured motorist, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. Call 615-251-0005 OR 800-427-8960 to schedule a free consultation with an wreck attorney in Nashville.
Do You Need Uninsured Motorist Car Insurance?
Although you have the right to waive UM coverage, it is wise to retain at least the $100,000/$300,000 per person/accident for bodily injury and $25,000 per accident for property damage. UM insurance can apply in all kinds of scenarios, including pedestrian accidents and hit-and-run collisions. This is insurance you are buying to protect you and your family.
UM coverage can also apply in situations where the liable party has car insurance but does not have a large enough policy to cover all the damages that you incur. Under such circumstances, your own UM policy could serve as a kind of gap insurance to make up the difference.
What Should You Know About Filing a Claim Under UM Insurance?
Filing a UM claim with your own insurance provider is similar to filing a third-party claim with someone else’s provider. At the end of the day, you and the insurance adjuster still have competing goals; you want to secure enough compensation to cover all the damages, and he or she wants to negotiate for the smallest settlement possible.
Even if you have been a loyal customer for years and the insurance adjuster is both friendly and compassionate, it is wise to seek legal counsel during the claims process. An attorney will help you navigate the proceedings while protecting your best interests along the way, ensuring you do not accept anything less than what you deserve.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision with someone who does not have enough insurance to cover the damages, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. We understand the financial and emotional toll a serious accident can have on your life.
Contact us online or call615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced lawyer in Nashville. You can learn more about auto wreck claims in Tennessee by visiting the USAttorneys website.
Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
424 Church Street, Suite 2000
Nashville, TN 37219
800-427-8960
