Driving without insurance is illegal in New Mexico, yet a surprising number of drivers on the road lack proper insurance coverage. According to a report from the Insurance Information Institute, an estimated 21.8 percent of New Mexico drivers are uninsured. This troubling statistic highlights the importance and the need for uninsured motorist coverage.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect drivers who are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. This coverage provides financial protection in the event that the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance coverage to fully compensate the victim for their losses. It can cover expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Effectively, it takes your insurance policy and acts like the at-fault driver had your same insurance policy. 

Given the high number of uninsured drivers on the road in New Mexico, uninsured motorist coverage is an essential component of any auto insurance policy. Without this coverage, drivers could be left with significant financial losses if they are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.

What do I do if I am in an Auto Accident in Albuquerque or in New Mexico with an Uninsured Driver?

If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it is important to take immediate steps to protect your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve. First, notify your insurance company of the accident. Second, We recommend talking with an attorney. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law can help you navigate the legal process and handle your claim. The attorneys at the Gauthier and Maier Law Firm have extensive knowledge of insurance claims and finding coverage. If you were involved in an auto accident with an uninsured driver the Gauthier and Maier Law Firm can help. Finally, We recommend you seek medical treatment immediately to limit arguments that you were not actually injured. We recommend you look at our FAQ on the claims process, the types of damages you can seek, and others. 

One of the key advantages of working with an attorney is their expertise in dealing with insurance companies. Insurance companies may try to deny or delay payment, or offer a settlement that does not fully compensate the victim. An attorney can help you negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. Additionally, we regularly see insurance companies undervalue claims because you lack an attorney. For example, we recently collected almost $100,000 for a client when they were offering her $5,000. 

Another advantage of working with an attorney is their ability to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf. This can include obtaining police reports, medical records, and witness statements to support your claim. An experienced attorney can also work with experts to determine the full extent of your injuries and losses, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Finally, an attorney can represent you in court if necessary. While most personal injury claims are settled outside of court, there are situations where litigation may be necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. An attorney can handle all aspects of the litigation process, from filing the necessary paperwork to arguing your case in court.

The high number of uninsured drivers on the road in New Mexico highlights the importance of uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage can provide much-needed financial protection in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it is important to work with an attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. The Gauthier & Maier law firm has the expertise and experience needed to handle your claim and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 505-226-0009.