Law Offices of Elliott Owen Lipinsky
When the driver who caused a wreck has no insurance—or not enough coverage—the injured person may still have options. Elliott Owen Lipinsky helps clients in Selma, Montgomery, Dallas County, and across West Alabama identify and pursue available uninsured and underinsured motorist benefits.
What are uninsured and underinsured motorist claims?
Uninsured motorist coverage, commonly called UM, may apply when an at-fault driver has no liability insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage, or UIM, may apply when the available liability limits are not enough to cover the proven harm. The policy language, vehicles involved, household coverage, and facts of the collision all matter.
Why should every policy be reviewed?
Serious medical expenses and lost income can quickly exceed another driver’s limits. Applicable coverage may come from more than one policy or vehicle, and an insurer may require notice or other steps before benefits are available. A complete review can prevent valuable coverage from being overlooked.
How can multiple coverages affect the claim?
Alabama law may permit certain UM or UIM benefits to be combined in some circumstances, often called “stacking.” The number and amount of available coverages depend on the policies and the statutory rules that apply. It is important to examine the actual declarations pages, endorsements, and rejection forms rather than rely on an assumption.
Will the claim be against my own insurer?
A UM or UIM claim may involve an insurance company with which you have a contract. Even so, the insurer can investigate fault, causation, treatment, and value. Give prompt notice, preserve correspondence, and obtain advice before signing a release or accepting an offer that may affect other coverage.
What should you do after a wreck with an uninsured driver?
Report the crash, seek appropriate medical care, preserve photographs and witness information, and keep every policy and insurance letter. Avoid giving a recorded statement or signing broad authorizations until you understand what is being requested and how it may affect the claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have UM or UIM coverage?
Many Alabama policies include it, but coverage must be confirmed from the policy documents and any valid rejection. Do not rely only on an insurance card or a telephone answer.
What is the difference between UM and UIM?
UM generally addresses an at-fault driver with no applicable liability insurance. UIM generally addresses a driver whose available liability limits are insufficient for the proven losses.
Can I recover from the other driver and also pursue UIM benefits?
Sometimes, subject to the policy, notice requirements, offsets, and Alabama law. Before accepting the liability carrier’s limits or signing a release, the potential UIM claim should be evaluated.
Before accepting an insurance offer, make sure every source of coverage has been reviewed. Call (334) 230-7986 or start a free case review online.
Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after both the client and the firm agree in writing.