Uninsured drivers are a very real risk. Many times we think of car insurance in terms of our own property loss, i.e. damage to our own vehicle. Many times we think in terms of our potential liability if we are sued when the auto accident is our fault. This way of thinking often overlooks our own needs in the event we are involved in an auto accident that is not our fault. Failing to consider an auto accident that is someone else’s fault can lead to insufficient coverage on our end in the event the “at fault” driver does not have insurance or only has the state minimum coverage.

When an auto accident occurs, and you are not at fault, the at-fault part may not have insurance to cover your medical expenses and property loss. In fact, the probability is higher than many people realize. In these cases you may have a great case against the at fault driver. You may even win your case resulting in a judgment in your favor. However, it’s one thing to have a judgment, and another to collect on it. The uninsured driver is likely “judgment proof.” The term “judgment proof” refers to a party that has no assets to be collected, does not have enough property to pay the judgment, or are protected by laws that exclude wages and property from being used to pay the judgment.

The Insurance Research Council estimates that on average, nearly 13%, or about 1 out of every 8 drivers, are uninsured drivers.

The high number of uninsured drivers drivers on the roadways makes it extremely important to ensure that you have both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Even when the state requires a minimum level of uninsured coverage, the minimums can be easily exceeded by your, or your passenger’s, medical bills. The lawyers at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC, are licensed to practice in Missouri, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Missouri law requires drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage. However, Arkansas and Mississippi do not require the coverage. The lawyers at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC, are available to advise you when it comes to your insurance coverage.

If you have any questions regarding your coverage or you, a family member, or friend have found yourself in the unfortunate position of being involved in an auto accident with an uninsured driver feel free to contact us or call us at (573)686-2459. We are here for you when you need us.