When a driver refuses or is unable to carry proper motor vehicle insurance, that driver puts more than just him – or herself – at risk. If the improperly insured driver injures another person, the insurance will be inadequate to cover the damages. Injured parties, however, may be covered by their own insurance policies. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects accident victims in these cases. If you have been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it is important to contact an attorney at Milavetz, Gallop & Milavetz so we can help you receive the compensation that you are entitled.
Uninsured Motorists
The state of MN requires all drivers to carry auto insurance. If the driver who injured you or your passenger did not have insurance, or you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident, where it was impossible to identify the driver at all, this is when uninsured motorist coverage will step in to protect your interests.
Minnesota requires auto insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist coverage. By having uninsured motorist coverage your insurance company will act as if it were the at-fault driver’s insurance company in compensating you. When you file an uninsured motorist claim, your insurance company’s interests can be adverse to your interests. Consulting with an attorney before filing a claim is wise, and may result in more compensation in your pocket.
Underinsured Motorists
When the at-fault driver is underinsured, this means that the driver has purchased an auto insurance policy that does not provide enough coverage for your damages. Minnesota requires you to have underinsured motorist coverage, meaning you may be able to collect, from your own insurance company, the amount of your damages that exceeds the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.
Collecting Insurance Benefits
To recover benefits under an uninsured or underinsured motorist policy, the victim typically will need to show that the other motorist was at fault. The victim will also need to meet one of four Minnesota thresholds to collect on a bodily injury claim. To collect benefits under an underinsured motorist policy, the victim will need to collect as much as possible from the at-fault driver’s insurance company first.
Stacking Insurance Coverage
In Minnesota under all insurance policies, an injured party can “stack” no-fault coverage to reach a satisfactory level of compensation. By stacking coverage for more than one car on a single policy the injured party increases monetary benefits. The insured must choose to have stackable coverage upon purchasing the policy.
Contact an Attorney
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects accident victims when they are most vulnerable. The victim’s approach to the situation can change the level of compensation he or she receives. Indeed, some rules do not require the victim’s insurance company to pay the victim if the victim settles prematurely with the at-fault motorist’s insurance company. This is why it is so important to work with an experienced attorney at Milavetz, Gallop & Milavetz. Contact us today toll-free at 763-560-0000. We are available 24/7 for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options.
