Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Washington State? Here’s What to Do

Getting hit by an uninsured driver can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’re left with significant property damage or bodily injuries. In Washington State, where the rate of uninsured motorists is higher than the national average, it’s crucial to know what steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.

As an independent insurance agency, Mid-Columbia Insurance is here to guide you through the process and ensure you have the support you need.

Understanding Washington State’s Auto Insurance Requirements

Washington State requires all drivers to carry a minimum level of auto insurance coverage. This includes:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability
• $10,000 per accident for property damage liability

However, these minimum requirements may not be enough to fully protect you in the event of a serious accident, especially if you’re hit by an uninsured driver. That’s why it’s essential to consider additional coverage options, such as:

• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: This protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have (enough) insurance or if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run.
• Collision coverage: This helps pay for repairs to your vehicle if you’re in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Personal injury protection (PIP): This covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault.

At Mid-Columbia Insurance, we work with top insurance carriers like Safeco, Progressive, National General, Dairyland, The General, and Bristol West to provide our clients with a wide range of coverage options tailored to their unique needs and budget.

Steps to Take After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver

If you’re hit by an uninsured driver in Washington State, follow these steps to protect yourself and your interests:

1. Call the police: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to have an official police report documenting the incident. This report can serve as valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim.
2. Gather information: Collect as much information as possible about the uninsured driver, including their name, contact information, and vehicle details. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
3. Document the scene: Take photos of the damage to both vehicles, as well as any bodily injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. If possible, take pictures of the surrounding area, including any traffic signs or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
4. Seek medical attention: If you or your passengers are injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, as these will be important when filing an insurance claim.
5. Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and help you understand your coverage options.

Remember, even if the other driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover damages through your own insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage.

The Importance of Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional but highly recommended type of insurance that protects you if you’re hit by an uninsured driver. In Washington State, where the percentage of uninsured drivers is higher than the national average at 16.5%, having this coverage can be a lifesaver.

Here’s how it works:

Scenario	Without Uninsured Motorist Coverage	With Uninsured Motorist Coverage
You’re hit by an uninsured driver and sustain injuries	You may have to pay for your own medical bills out of pocket	Your uninsured motorist coverage will help pay for your medical expenses
You’re hit by an uninsured driver and your vehicle is damaged	You may have to pay for repairs out of pocket if you don’t have collision coverage	Your uninsured motorist property damage coverage will help pay for repairs

As Gary Paulson, owner of Mid-Columbia Insurance, explains, “Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the most important coverages a driver can have in Washington State. It provides peace of mind knowing that you’re protected even if the other driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance.”