06Apr
2020

Pedestrian Hit by Uninsured Motorist; Can They Recover Funds?

Pedestrian Hit by Uninsured Motorist; Can They Recover Funds?

When a pedestrian is involved in a hit and run or is hit by an uninsured driver, the pedestrian may not know what to do.  If the driver does not have the appropriate insurance coverage, the pedestrian will be stuck wondering how to pay the related medical bills.

While Florida requires drivers to carry auto insurance, many drivers in the state do not carry enough insurance to cover injuries they cause to a pedestrian, particularly in a serious accident.  When a driver is uninsured or underinsured, If you have your own auto insurance policy, you can make a claim through your insurance policy for medical bills in the event the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. First, you may be entitled to your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits to cover your medical expenses.  However, PIP benefits may still not be enough to cover serious injuries. 

To make sure you can protect yourself, it is important for you to have Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage on your own auto insurance policy.  This type of coverage is not automatic. It is an additional coverage that you should purchase with your policy.

UM coverage can compensate you for your injuries when the driver who hit you does not have enough insurance.  UM insurance can also protect you if you are involved in a hit and run.  

Opting for Uninsured Motorist Coverage through your own insurance is the only way for you to protect yourself. There’s no way to predict what another driver will have for insurance coverage. If you are ever caught in an incident where the at-fault driver does not have sufficient insurance, your UM coverage can help pay for your expenses.   

Be sure to speak to your insurance company today to learn more about this type of coverage and how it could be beneficial to your needs. Purchasing UM coverage can be an excellent way to protect yourself in the event of a multi-vehicle crash or if you are a pedestrian involved in a crash with an individual that is underinsured.

Contact us today to learn more about UM coverage and the options that you may have as a pedestrian that’s been involved in an accident. Knowing your rights and strategies associated with managing your injuries can be important.