Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accidents

UI/UM Accident Lawyers Fight for Injured Cleveland Drivers

An average of six people are seriously injured every week in Cleveland due to automobile crashes. Denison Ave., West 25^th Street, East 55^th Street, and Broadway Ave. are some of the most dangerous local roadways.

Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience, and if it involves an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may be uncertain about your legal rights and options. In these cases, you have the right to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If your insurance includes UM/UI coverage, this may be your primary source of compensation.

George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law, will advise you on the best strategy moving forward, and we’ll also negotiate with insurance companies to help make sure you receive the money you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Our firm has been helping Ohio car accident victims for over 35 years. Super Lawyers has recognized the outstanding service we provide our clients based on peer reviews and independent research, and we have a Distinguished Peer Rating for High Professional Achievement from Martindale-Hubbell.

Call (216) 284-9085 to schedule a FREE consultation with our Cleveland car accident lawyer today.

What Are UI and UM Insurance?

In Ohio, uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UI) are important terms for drivers involved in car accidents. UM coverage applies when you’re in an accident where the at-fault driver has no insurance. UI coverage is essential when the at-fault driver’s insurance cannot fully cover the damages caused. This typically happens when their policy limits are lower than the actual costs incurred from the accident.

While Ohio does not require drivers to carry UM/UI coverage, we strongly recommend it. UM and UI insurance are critical components of Ohio’s comprehensive auto insurance policy. These coverage types are designed to safeguard you financially, ensuring that you’re not left stranded by the limitations of another driver’s lack of coverage.

The Impact of an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

An accident with an uninsured driver can leave you in a challenging position. Without the at-fault party’s insurance to cover the damages, you might be concerned about how to pay for vehicle repairs, medical bills, and other associated costs. This is where your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage becomes valuable.

If you lack UM coverage, you may need to use your collision coverage for vehicle damages and health insurance for medical expenses. But these options could result in higher out-of-pocket costs, like paying deductibles.

Accidents Involving Underinsured Drivers

In these cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance may cover some of the costs but not all of them. If your damages exceed the limits of the other driver’s policy, underinsured motorist (UI) coverage can help bridge the gap.

Without UI coverage, you could be left to cover the remaining costs. Similar to UM coverage, this may include extensive vehicle repairs or significant medical expenses. This financial strain can be particularly difficult to manage if the accident results in long-term injury or disability.

What to Do After an Accident with UM or UI Drivers

If you’re involved in an accident with a UM or UI driver in Ohio, there are certain steps you’ll want to take to protect your health and strengthen your insurance claim.

1. Call 911.
2. Make sure you and your passengers are safe and seek medical treatment right away.
3. Follow your doctor’s treatment advice, and save receipts for all expenses related to the accident.
4. Collect contact information from witnesses and get insurance information from all drivers involved in the accident.
5. Don’t sign any agreements or make any statements about the accident to an insurance agent.
6. Contact George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law; our firm will guide you through the complexities of filing a claim, dealing with insurance adjusters, and helping to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
7. Don’t talk about the accident or discuss details, including on social media, with anyone besides your lawyer.

Understanding Insurance Bad Faith in Cleveland

Insurance bad faith refers to a situation where an insurance company fails to fulfill its obligations to its policyholders. This can include unreasonable delays in handling claims, failing to support a lawsuit, or refusing to pay a claim without a valid reason.

In Ohio, if you’re facing bad faith actions from your insurer, you may be entitled to receive an original claim in additional compensation for damages caused by the insurance company’s unfair conduct. This might include financial penalties and your lawyer’s fees.

It’s important to document all interactions with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. If you suspect bad faith, consulting with a Cleveland car accident attorney can provide guidance on how you can get all the money you’re entitled to receive.

Our Experienced Cleveland UI and UM Attorneys Can Help

George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law, will investigate the accident and explore all the available avenues for compensation. And we won’t let the insurance company off the hook when they owe you money.

Call our UI/UM accident attorneys at our Cleveland firm at (216) 284-9085 to learn more today.