1. Call the Police Immediately
No matter the circumstances, it’s always crucial to contact law enforcement after an accident. When the police arrive, they will document the scene, take statements from both parties, and create an accident report. This report will be valuable when filing a claim with your insurance company, especially if you need to prove that the other driver was at fault and uninsured.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene
While waiting for the police, start collecting evidence. Take clear photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, traffic signs, and any injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be when seeking compensation.

3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you should still get their personal details, including their name, address, phone number, and driver’s license number. If they attempt to flee the scene or refuse to provide information, notify the police immediately.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company. Most auto insurance policies include uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which can help cover your medical expenses and vehicle repairs if the at-fault driver is uninsured. If you’re unsure whether your policy includes this coverage, ask your insurer about your options.

5. Understand Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you have UM/UIM coverage, your insurance provider will step in to cover costs that the uninsured driver would have been responsible for. This coverage can help pay for:
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (if included in your policy)
If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, you may have to pay for repairs and medical bills out of pocket or explore other legal options.

6. Consider Filing a Lawsuit
If the uninsured driver was at fault and you don’t have adequate insurance coverage, you may be able to sue them for damages. However, many uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay for damages, making legal action less effective in recovering compensation. A car accident lawyer can assess whether suing the other driver is a viable option based on their assets and your damages.

7. Check for Other Sources of Compensation
In some cases, there may be additional ways to recover compensation, such as:
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): If you have PIP or MedPay, these coverages can help pay for medical expenses regardless of fault.
• Collision Coverage: This part of your insurance policy may help pay for vehicle repairs even if the other driver is uninsured.
• Employer or Umbrella Insurance: If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer might be liable for damages.

8. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Having medical records will also help if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later.

9. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating an accident with an uninsured driver can be complex. A car accident lawyer can help you:
• Understand your insurance coverage and legal options
• File a claim with your insurance company
• Negotiate with insurers to maximize compensation
• Take legal action if necessary
Many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, so it’s worth speaking with one to discuss your case.

10. Take Preventative Measures for the Future
To protect yourself from uninsured drivers in the future, consider:
• Adding UM/UIM Coverage: This extra coverage is relatively inexpensive and can save you thousands of dollars if you’re ever in an accident with an uninsured driver.
• Reviewing Your Insurance Policy: Make sure you understand what your policy covers and whether you need additional protection.
• Driving Defensively: Stay alert on the road and be cautious of reckless drivers who may be uninsured.