Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist

Can I still recover my damages when I have been a victim of a hit and run or when the negligent party does not have insurance?

The answer: It depends.

In Rhode Island, drivers are required by law to carry a liability policy and uninsured/underinsured coverage. Liability coverages damages when you are at fault for an accident. The uninsured motorist benefits are designed to protect you if you’ve been a victim of a hit and run accident, involved with a driver who doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough insurance to cover the damages they caused.

Here's how it typically works:

1.    Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): If you're in an accident caused by a driver who doesn't have insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage will help pay for your medical bills and property damage.

2.    Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): If you're in an accident caused by a driver whose insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your expenses, your underinsured motorist coverage can make up the difference.

A person can waive out of these coverages, but they're certainly valuable to consider, especially in areas where uninsured drivers are more common or where minimum insurance requirements are low.

In Rhode Island, drivers are required to have the following minimum auto insurance coverage limits:

1.    Bodily Injury Liability Coverage:

a.    $25,000.00 per person

b.    $50,000.00 per accident (if multiple people are injured)

2.    Property Damage Liability Coverage:

a.    $25,000.00 per accident.

Uninsured/Underinsured coverage provides an added layer of financial protection for you and your passengers in case of an accident caused by someone else's negligence.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a hit and run or a driver of who does not have insurance, it is essential to consult with our office at Weber, Bednarz, Randell & Young, LLP – (401) 900-9279. At Weber, Bednarz, Randell & Young, LLP, we can evaluate your case, gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and advocate on your behalf to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Give us a call today! (401) 900-9279.