Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims in Maryland
Protecting Your Rights When the At-Fault Driver Lacks Adequate Insurance
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Maryland, The Law Office of Caroline Norman Frost is here to help. Call us today at 240-249-2269 for a free consultation to discuss your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim.
What Is UM/UIM Coverage and Why Is It Crucial in Maryland?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is a type of auto insurance designed to protect you if you are injured in an accident caused by a driver who:
- Does not have insurance (uninsured).
- Has insufficient insurance to cover your damages (underinsured).
In Maryland, UM/UIM coverage is mandatory and is included as part of your auto insurance policy. The state requires insurers to provide coverage limits equal to your liability coverage unless you opt for lower limits in writing.
Why UM/UIM Coverage Matters:
- Uninsured Drivers: Despite legal requirements, many drivers in Maryland operate vehicles without insurance, leaving victims with no recourse against the at-fault driver.
- Underinsured Drivers: The minimum liability coverage in Maryland is $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident, which is often insufficient to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages after a serious accident.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: UM coverage applies if the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be identified.
UM/UIM coverage ensures you are not left bearing the financial burden of an accident caused by another driver’s negligence.
Steps to File a UM/UIM Claim with Your Own Insurance Company
If you’ve been injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, follow these steps to file a UM/UIM claim:
- Report the Accident:
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible about the accident. Maryland law requires timely reporting of all claims.
- Document the Incident:
- Collect evidence, including the police report, photos of the accident scene, medical records, and proof of damages.
- Determine Coverage Limits:
- Review your insurance policy to understand your UM/UIM coverage limits.
- File a Claim:
- Submit a claim with your insurance company, including detailed documentation of your injuries and damages.
- Cooperate with Investigations:
- Your insurer may investigate the accident and require a recorded statement or additional documentation.
- Consult an Attorney:
- Insurance companies may attempt to undervalue your claim or deny coverage. An experienced attorney can handle negotiations and ensure your rights are protected.
Common Disputes in UM/UIM Claims and How We Help
UM/UIM claims can be complex, and disputes with your insurance company are common. At The Law Office of Caroline Norman Frost, we help clients navigate these challenges by addressing:
- Coverage Denials:
- Insurers may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or that the at-fault driver was adequately insured. We provide evidence to counter these claims.
- Disputes Over Fault:
- Maryland’s contributory negligence rule can complicate claims. We build a strong case to demonstrate the other driver’s fault and your entitlement to coverage.
- Low Settlement Offers:
- Insurance companies often undervalue claims to minimize payouts. We negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Policy Limits:
- If your damages exceed your UM/UIM coverage limits, we explore other options for recovery, including pursuing personal assets of the at-fault driver.
Why Choose The Law Office of Caroline Norman Frost?
Our firm has extensive experience handling UM/UIM claims in Maryland and understands the tactics insurance companies use to delay or deny claims. We will:
- Investigate your accident thoroughly.
- Collect and present compelling evidence to support your claim.
- Handle all communications and negotiations with your insurance company.
- Take your case to court if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.
We work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure that you are not left financially devastated by someone else’s negligence.
Call-to-Action
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, don’t navigate the claims process alone. The Law Office of Caroline Norman Frost can help you secure the compensation you need to move forward. Call us today at 240-249-2269 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.