Uninsured Accidents

Why Uninsured Driver Insurance is Important in Tennessee

Accidents are hard enough as is, but if you or someone you love is involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, this could mean little to no protection for the victims. Many of our clients, however, have had the foresight to have uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance to protect them from uninsured drivers. However, simply having the coverage does not ensure fair compensation. Oftentimes, through your uninsured motorist coverage, your own insurance company can and will elect to defend the case against you in the name of the person at fault. Your insurance company may do this to challenge the value of your damages. This happens in more cases than not. It is important to know your rights and responsibilities when dealing with an uninsured motorist claim. We recommend that you contact one of our experienced Tennessee car accident lawyers if you have been injured by an uninsured motorist.

What is Uninsured Driver Insurance and How will it Benefit Me in an Accident?

In Tennessee, uninsured and underinsured protection is part of your car insurance policy that protects you when you are involved in an accident involving the uninsured or underinsured. Every driver in Tennessee is required to have insurance, but many only carry small policies. In Tennessee, a driver is only required to carry $25,000.00 insurance coverage. This figure may not be enough to pay for your damages. Many drivers ignore the law or lose their insurance for failing to pay their premiums. Uninsured motorist coverage offers protection for you as the insured driver, passengers and anyone else who is named as part of the policy. It is important to note that in Tennessee you must sign a specific waiver should you not want uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance coverage. Generally, this type of insurance coverage is relatively inexpensive and can be crucial for you if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.

How much Uninsured Protection Will I Need?

In Tennessee, drivers can have as much uninsured/underinsured driver protection as liability insurance. The amount of protection you get depends on the rest of your insurance coverage. You can talk to an insurance agent about your options and concerns. It is probably wise to have as much protection as your budget will allow so that you are well protected.

How Will Uninsured Protection Affect the Cost of my Policy?

If you are worried about uninsured claims increasing your costs, it is important to know that an insurance company is not allowed to raise the costs of your policy due to an uninsured or underinsured claim. Also, it is important to talk to your insurance agent about how adding uninsured protection may change your policy and how adding this policy can benefit you. Generally, the additional cost to carry uninsured/underinsured coverage is a small component of your insurance bill.

When Should I Contact a Tennessee Automobile Accident Attorney?

Unfortunately, automobile accidents occur every day across Tennessee. If you or someone you know has been in an automobile accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver or if your uninsured claim has been turned down by your insurance company, we strongly recommended that you immediately contact one of our experienced Tennessee accident and personal injury Attorneys. We care about our clients and will work to answer any questions as well as do any investigating that may be needed in order to see that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact us online or call us at 800.705.2121 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options

Author Bio

Jim Higgins, founder of the Higgins Firm, is a seasoned personal injury attorney with deep roots in Nashville, Tennessee. A 4th generation Nashvillian, Jim carries on the legal legacy of his father, a judge for over 30 years. After graduating from the University of Memphis School of Law, Jim’s career began on the other side of the courtroom, defending insurance companies and learning their tactics for minimizing settlements. However, he soon realized his true calling was fighting for the rights of the injured, and for the past several years, he has exclusively represented plaintiffs in personal injury cases.

Since then, his dedication and skill have earned him membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an organization limited to attorneys who have secured million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for their clients. Licensed to practice in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia, Jim focuses on personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation cases. His exceptional work has been recognized by his peers, earning him a spot on the Super Lawyers list from 2021 to 2024, a distinction awarded to only a select group of accomplished attorneys in each state.

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