Handling an uninsured driver accident

Imagine waiting at a red light, thinking about the day ahead, when — bam — another car hits yours from behind. You’re shaken, maybe a little sore, and when you step out to check the damage, you learn the other driver doesn’t have insurance. Now what?

While a scenario like this is unsettling, you’re not alone. According to a recent Insurance Research Council (Opens in a new tab) report, about 1 in 7 drivers nationwide doesn’t have auto insurance. So even though you follow the rules of the road, accidents with uninsured drivers can leave you vulnerable.

We’re here to help with steps you can take to navigate an uninsured motorist accident with confidence and clarity.

What to do after an accident with an uninsured driver

First, try to stay calm. The more you maintain your composure, the better you’ll be able to follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim:

1. Call the police

It’s always a good idea to call the police after an accident, especially if the other driver is uninsured. A police report will document what happened and may help support your claim so you can get your expenses covered.

2. Don’t accept money

The other driver might offer you cash to avoid penalties. It’s tempting, but don’t accept. You won’t know the full extent of damages or injuries right away, so accepting money could complicate your claim if things turn out to be more serious than initially thought.

3. Swap information

Even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, get their contact and vehicle details. Also, ask for information from any witnesses — their statements can be valuable during the claims process.

4. Gather details

Write down the make and model of the vehicles involved, the time and location of the accident, and the name and badge number of the responding officer. Take note of anything that might help your insurance company understand what happened.

5. Take pictures

Snap photos of the damage to both vehicles, VIN numbers, license plates, traffic signs, and the scene from different angles. These images will be helpful when filing your claim.

Insurance claims against uninsured drivers

Once you’ve collected all the details, contact your insurance company. Let them know you were hit by an uninsured driver — this will guide the claims process. Then be ready to provide:

1. Your insurance information

You’ll need your policy number handy.

2. Your notes from the accident scene

Remember all those details you wrote down? You’ll be asked to provide a thorough report of how the accident occurred, so use your notes to make your report as descriptive as possible.

3. The other person’s information

You won’t have insurance details for them, but you can still provide their name, contact information, and anything else the at-fault driver gave you.

4. Police information

Provide your insurer with the name of the police department, police officer, and police report number.

At American Family Insurance, we’re committed to making your claims experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. For more on what to expect, check out our guide to the claims process after an accident.

Easily file and track a claim with the MyAmFam app

Filing and tracking your claim is simple and convenient with the MyAmFam app. Download the app today to manage your insurance needs.

Were you hit by an uninsured driver in a no-fault state?

The claims process is somewhat different if you're hit in a no-fault state. In these states, no matter who caused the accident, your own insurance provider helps pay your medical bills and lost earnings. So, whether the other driver has insurance or not, you’ll still file your claim with your insurance company.

The best coverage for accidents with uninsured drivers

You can’t predict when you might have a run-in with an uninsured driver, but you can be proactive with uninsured motorist coverage.

What is uninsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage provides protection if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance. When added to your policy, it steps in to help pay for bodily injuries to you and your passengers — like what the at-fault driver's liability insurance would do if they had it.

Many states require uninsured motorist coverage, but even if it’s optional, getting it is worth considering for added peace of mind.

What if you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage?

Without uninsured motorist coverage, you may need to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver to recover costs. This could take time and money, and there’s no guarantee you’ll win a settlement, leaving you to pay for injuries out of pocket.

For damage to your vehicle, collision insurance coverage can be used to help with repairs.

Stay protected when the unexpected happens

Uninsured motorist protection gives you confidence every time you hit the road. Connect with an American Family Insurance agent to learn more about adding this coverage to your policy today.

You can also explore how our underinsured motorist protection can provide a financial safety net in the event of the unexpected.

Want more tips on handling car accidents and staying prepared? Visit our car accident resource center for helpful articles and guides all in one, easy-to-find location.

This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. You should contact a professional for advice specific to your situation.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.