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Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Houston can be daunting. It becomes even more complex when the other party or driver is uninsured or underinsured. Our Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer has decades of experience and can help you!
In Houston, this is a common scenario. Many drivers on the road lack liability insurance coverage or adequate insurance liability limits. Lacking insurance or insufficient auto insurance leaves accident victims in a tough spot.
Understanding uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance claims is crucial. It helps you protect your rights and seek the compensation you are entitled to. However, being in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver can be intricate and confusing.
That’s where our Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer comes in. Our legal team can help you file uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance claims and fight for a fair settlement.
Houston injury attorney Greg Baumgartner at Baumgartner Law Firm helps uninsured motorists with bodily injury claims in Houston. Here are the challenges and how our skilled uninsured motorist accident attorney can make a difference.
Has an uninsured driver hit you? Don’t let the stress overwhelm you. Our experienced legal team is here to fight for your medical bills, lost wages, and rightful compensation. Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
But what does UIM compensation cover? It can help pay for a range of costs. These include medical bills, car repair costs, and lost wages resulting from the accident.
Here’s a brief rundown of what uninsured motorist liability coverage typically includes:
Understanding these aspects is the first step in dealing with uninsured motorist claims and UIM cases. But the process of recovering compensation doesn’t end here. There are legal procedures to follow and potential challenges to overcome.
The simple truth is insurance companies are not on your side when you make a claim. Underinsured and uninsured motorist claims are no different. If an adjuster can pay you pennies on the dollar, they will.
In Texas, auto insurance is mandatory. However, not all drivers abide by this law. According to the Insurance Information Institute, approximately 14% of Texas drivers are uninsured, making uninsured motorist coverage crucial for every driver in the state.
Also, most people buy the minimum legal limits for car insurance. In Texas, that is:
Texas law requires you to have at least $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 of coverage for property damage. This is called 30/60/25 coverage.
Texas law does not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. But insurance companies must offer it. If you choose to decline, you must do so in writing. This coverage can protect you financially if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.
The state follows an “at-fault” auto liability insurance system. At-fault means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. If that driver is uninsured, your uninsured motorist coverage can step in. It can cover your medical bills, car repairs, and other related costs and damages.
Understanding the legal landscape of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in Texas is key. It can help you navigate the claims process more effectively. It can also help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve after an accident involving an uninsured driver.
Acting promptly is crucial if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver. The first step is to ensure everyone’s safety. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
Next, gather as much information as possible. The needed information includes the other driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information. If there are witnesses, obtain their information as well.
Here are some key steps to follow:
Remember, a crash and your actions immediately after the crash or accident can impact your claim. It’s important to stay calm and focused. Always prioritize your health and safety above all else. Houston experiences numerous hit-and-run accidents, which can complicate insurance claims.
Filing an uninsured motorist claim can be a complex process. It’s important to understand the steps involved. This guide will help you navigate the process.
First, you must notify your car insurance company about the accident. Notification should be done as soon as possible.
Next, you’ll need to provide all the necessary documentation. Proof includes the police report, medical records, and any evidence from the accident scene. If you hire a UM lawyer, they will obtain your documentation and deal with your insurance company.
After you have supplied your insurance company with the documentation they need to evaluate your claim, they will begin the claim evaluation process. Often, the biggest issue is how much your claim is worth. It is noteworthy to understand that the insurance company ,even though it’s your insurance company, they are still out to pay as little as possible on your claim. Be prepared to negotiate and reject lowball offer settlements.
We recommend consulting a Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer for assistance.
Notify your insurance company about the accident.
Provide documentation to prove your claim
Negotiate with your insurance company
Hire a Houston uninsured motorist claim attorney if you can’t get a fair settlement offer.
Remember, each case is unique. The process may vary depending on the law office and your specific circumstances. It’s always best to seek legal advice to protect your rights. Here is an article about car accidents with lapsed insurance in Texas.
Underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) is for situations where you have serious injuries, yet the other driver has minimum limits or does not have enough liability insurance coverage. When your damages exceed the other driver’s insurance coverage, you can claim with your own insurance company if you have underinsured motorist coverage.
UM, claims start after the liability policy limits for the other driver have been tendered and are stacked on top of such policy limits up to your UIM policy limits.
Getting an insurance claims lawyer is almost always recommended for UIM claims.
A Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer plays a crucial role in your claim process. We provide legal advice and representation tailored to your specific case.
These lawyers are well-versed in the complexities of Texas insurance laws. An attorney can guide you through filing an uninsured motorist claim.
We can also assist you in gathering the necessary evidence. Proof includes medical records, accident scene photos, and witness statements.
Your lawyer can negotiate with the health insurance company if your claim is denied or underpaid. They can also take legal action if necessary.
Hiring a Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. They can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
In the past, in Texas, underinsured and uninsured motorist claims were one of the easiest claims for personal injury attorneys to handle. The reason is that the conduct of the insurance company could be evaluated for “bad faith” practices and damages enhanced as a result. However, court rulings have taken the bad faith practices claims away from personal injury victims at least until after the court has conclusively established liability and damages.
Now more than ever, an attorney may be required to get fair compensation for a UIM or UM claim.
In Texas, the timeframe within which an individual must initiate legal action—known as the statute of limitations—varies depending on the nature of the claim. For uninsured motorist (UM) claims against your auto insurer, you have 4 years to file your lawsuit. However, if you are looking to pursue the other driver or a third party for causing the accident, the statute of limitations is only 2 years from the date of the accident.
When you get hurt in a collision caused by an uninsured driver, you may file a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault party. According to Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Section 16.003, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. You must file a lawsuit within this two-year window to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Alternatively, individuals may file a claim under their own insurance policy’s uninsured motorist coverage. In Texas, UM claims are considered contract disputes between the policyholder and the insurance company. As outlined in Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code section 16.004, the statute of limitations for contract disputes is four years.
Timely Action: It’s crucial to act promptly when dealing with UM claims. Delaying action can hurt your ability to recover compensation.
Protecting yourself against uninsured motorists involves proactive measures. One of the most effective ways is to understand your insurance policy. Ensure it includes uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage can protect you financially if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver and provide protection against bodily injury.
Another important step is to maintain a clean driving record. Safe driving habits can reduce your risk of accidents. Additionally, a clean record can help you secure more favorable insurance rates.
Here are some additional tips:
Lastly, seek legal advice if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. A Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer can guide you through the claims process. They can help you understand your rights and secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Navigating uninsured motorist claims can be a complex process. It involves understanding insurance laws, filing claims, and negotiating settlements. But you don’t have to face this process alone.
Our Houston Uninsured Motorist Claims Lawyer can provide expert legal help. We can guide you through each step of a personal injury lawsuit, ensuring your rights are protected. We will help you secure the compensation and medical care you deserve.
Contact Baumgartner Law Firm for help with your car accident insurance claims. We offer a free consultation.
Call us at (281) 587-1111.
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