Title: Navigating Underinsured Motorist and Self-Coverage Dilemmas
Hi everyone,
About a month ago, I was in an accident where I was not at fault, which unfortunately resulted in my car being declared a total loss, valued at around $24,000. The driver responsible for the accident has a coverage limit of only $10,000. To make matters worse, I opted not to carry collision coverage (lesson learned!).
I do have uninsured/motorist bodily injury coverage of $15,000/$30,000, as well as uninsured motorist property damage coverage of $3,500, but I’m not sure if that applies in my situation.
My question is: Can I accept the payout from the at-fault driver’s insurance company and simultaneously pursue a claim with my insurer (Progressive) for compensation related to my medical injuries? I’m not looking to sue the other driver, so it feels like my options are limited for recovering my losses.
Any insights would be appreciated!
I’m sorry to hear about your accident; that sounds really frustrating. Based on the details you provided, it looks like you’re in a tough spot. Here’s some guidance on how to approach this situation:
Accepting the Payout from the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: You can accept the $10,000 payout from the at-fault driver’s insurance for the property damage. However, be sure to review any agreements you sign to ensure you’re not waiving your right to pursue additional claims.
Pursuing Your Own Insurer: You can file a claim with your own insurance company (Progressive) for injuries and medical expenses under your uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. Since you have $15,000/$30,000 coverage, this could help cover your medical costs resulting from the accident. Just keep in mind that you may need to provide documentation of your medical expenses and any related costs.
Property Damage Coverage: Regarding your uninsured motorist property damage coverage, it generally applies when the at-fault driver does not have insurance or enough coverage to compensate for damages. In your case, since the at-fault driver has some insurance, the limit of their policy applies. Unfortunately, your UMPD coverage may not kick in here unless the damages exceed their limits.
Consider Consulting with a Professional: Given the complexities of insurance policies and the specifics of your situation, it might be worth consulting with an insurance adjuster or a legal professional familiar with auto insurance claims. They can provide tailored advice based on your circumstances and help you understand any additional options you may have.
Documentation: Keep copies of all documentation related to the accident, including correspondence with both insurance companies, medical records, and receipts for expenses.
While it may feel like you’re at a loss right now, utilizing your own coverage might provide some relief. Good luck, and I hope you can get the support you need!