What to Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist

Car accidents are stressful under any circumstances. But finding out the other driver doesn’t have insurance, or is under insured, can make the situation even more overwhelming. Many people immediately worry about how their medical bills will be paid or how they’ll recover lost income from missing work.

If this happens to you in Texas, it’s important to know that you still have options. The steps you take after the accident can have a big impact on your ability to recover physically, financially, and legally.

Why Speaking with a Lawyer Early Can Help

After an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, things can get complicated quickly. You may be dealing with your own insurance company, trying to understand your coverage, and figuring out what your claim is actually worth.

Speaking with a personal injury attorney early in the process can help you avoid common mistakes and better understand your options. An attorney can guide you through the claims process, deal with insurance adjusters on your behalf, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under Texas law. Even if you’re unsure whether you need legal help, getting answers early can make a big difference.

Focus on Safety and Medical Care First

Right after the accident, your priority should be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone needs medical attention. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic.

Even if you feel okay, it’s still a good idea to seek medical care as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Getting checked early not only protects your health but also creates important documentation if you need to file a claim later.

Document the Scene

If you’re able, try to gather as much information at the scene as possible. Take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Get the other driver’s name and contact information, along with the names of any witnesses. Even without insurance details, this information can still be valuable.

Man holding a red toy car

Notify Your Insurance Company

With the help of your attorney, report the crash to your insurance company. While it may feel frustrating to rely on your own policy, this is often how claims are handled when the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.

If your policy includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), it may help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. This type of coverage is designed for exactly these situations.

Be Careful When Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

It’s common to receive calls from insurance adjusters shortly after an accident. While they may seem helpful, their goal is often to limit how much the company pays out.

Be cautious about giving recorded statements or accepting a quick settlement offer. In many cases, initial offers do not fully reflect the long-term impact of your injuries. Taking time to understand your situation—and getting the right guidance from a lawyer—can help you avoid settling for less than you deserve.

Moving Forward After the Accident

Being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver can leave you feeling uncertain about what comes next. But you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Contact the LeBlanc Law Firm today for a free case evaluation:

855-754-6266

admin@leblanclawpractice.com