Negligent driver fled the scene or doesn’t have enough insurance after a car accident in Massachusetts
Quick Answer: Hit-and-Run & Underinsured Drivers in Massachusetts
- If a negligent driver flees the scene or lacks enough insurance, your own policy may apply
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage protects you in hit-and-run accidents
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is inadequate
- These claims can cover serious injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering
- An experienced Massachusetts personal injury attorney can help maximize your available coverage
Too often, individuals suffer serious and disabling injuries as a result of a vehicle related accident, but the person or business responsible does not carry enough insurance to adequately compensate him or her.
For example, a man was permanently disabled after being struck by a motor vehicle while he was walking to his car. The at-fault driver fled the scene and was unable to be identified. This man suffered catastrophic injuries, underwent numerous surgeries and could not return to work. Despite an exhaustive investigation the only insurance available to compensate him for his medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages was his Uninsurance coverage in his automobile insurance. Unfortunately, despite his debilitating injuries, he only carried the minimum policy of $20,000 per person/40,000 per accident.
How do I protect myself and the other passengers in my car?
With respect to automobile insurance coverage, the most powerful thing you can do to be responsible for yourself and your loved ones is make sure you carry high Under Insurance and Uninsurance coverage. Under insurance coverage will protect you if your injuries and damages exceed the insurance coverage of the at-fault driver. Uninsurance coverage will protect you if you are injured by an unidentified person (‘hit and run’) or uninsured vehicle.
At minimum, I would suggest carrying $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident of Under/Uninsurance coverage. Generally this is referred to as a ‘100/300 policy’. While Massachusetts requires that vehicles carry at minimum $20,000/$40,000, this is rarely adequate and will not protect you in an underinsured situation.
Call Today For a Free Consultation
Dorchester car accidents can result in serious injuries, require medical treatment, and medical bills. If you’re involved in car accident contact an experienced personal injury attorneys who specializes in these types of personal injury cases. Call or reach out to Gavagan Law, LLC and we’ll guide you through this process and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call or reach out using our contact form and speak with us for a free consultation.
Our experienced Dorchester car accident lawyers help clients injured throughout Massachusetts, including Dorchester, Boston, Quincy, Cambridge, Worcester, and Cape Cod, as well as Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex, Worcester, and Bristol Counties. No fee unless we win.
