Underinsured Motorist Accidents

Prince George's County Injury Attorneys Skillfully Representing Clients Hurt in Collisions With Uninsured Drivers

Underinsured motorist accidents occur when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries and damages. In these situations, victims often rely on their underinsured motorist coverage to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses resulting from the accident. This process can be challenging, as insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether.

If you have been involved in an underinsured motorist accident, the Prince George's underinsured motorist accident lawyers at Foran & Foran are prepared to assist you. Our team will carefully review your insurance policy, file the necessary claims, and advocate for you to receive the compensation you deserve. We will handle all interactions and disputes with the insurance companies, ensuring your rights are protected. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the financial recovery you need to overcome your injuries and get your life back on track.

How Underinsured Motorist Accidents Happen

Underinsured motorist accidents often happen when the at-fault driver carries only the state minimum insurance coverage. This coverage is sometimes insufficient to cover the costs of more severe accidents, which can include:

• Serious injuries. If the accident results in significant injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, or traumatic brain injuries, the medical bills alone can exceed the at-fault driver's insurance limits.
• Multi-vehicle accidents. In accidents involving more than one vehicle, the at-fault driver's insurance may be quickly depleted, leaving little to cover your damages.
• Prolonged recovery. In cases where the victim faces long-term recovery or permanent disability, the costs of rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and lost wages can far surpass the coverage available from the at-fault driver.

The Insurance Information Institute reports that an estimated one in eight drivers in the U.S. is either uninsured or underinsured. This makes it crucial to have adequate UIM coverage in place, as the chances of being involved in an accident with an underinsured driver are higher than many people realize.

What to Do After an Underinsured Motorist Accident

After an underinsured motorist accident, taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you need is important. The following actions can help strengthen your case:

• Seek medical attention. Even if you don't think you're seriously injured, it's essential to get checked by a medical professional after the accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
• Document the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. This documentation can help support your claim.
• Obtain contact information. Get the other driver's contact details and insurance information. If there are witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information.
• Notify your insurance company. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through filing a UIM claim if necessary.

The earlier you seek legal representation, the better equipped you'll be to handle potential disputes that may arise during the claims process.

Filing an Underinsured Motorist Claim

When filing a UIM claim in Maryland, you must exhaust the at-fault driver's insurance coverage. This means that the other driver's insurance must pay the maximum before your UIM coverage kicks in. Once that happens, your insurance company will step in to cover the remaining damages up to the limits of your UIM policy.

However, insurance companies may attempt to minimize their payouts, even in underinsured motorist claims. They may argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed or that your medical treatments are unnecessary. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can help ensure you receive the full compensation you're entitled to.

Speak with an Experienced Prince George's Car Accident Lawyer About Your Case Today
When you're involved in an accident with an underinsured motorist, your recovery shouldn't be limited by the other driver’s lack of coverage. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our experienced Prince George's car accident lawyers are well-versed in dealing with the complexities of underinsured motorist claims. We will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you're entitled to, including any gaps left by the at-fault driver's inadequate insurance. Call us today at 301-441-2022 to speak with a lawyer who is dedicated to securing your financial recovery. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.

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