What If the Driver Who Hit You Was Uninsured in Illinois?
You never think it’ll happen to you. One moment you’re driving along, maybe heading home from work or picking up groceries. The next, you’re in a crash. Your heart’s racing, your hands are shaking, and the other driver is standing there saying they don’t have insurance.
In Illinois, this kind of thing happens more than you might expect. And when it does, it’s not just scary. It can also be confusing and financially devastating. Who pays for your hospital bills? What about the damage to your car?
This is where having the right legal help truly matters. Attorney Michael J. Brennan understands how overwhelming these moments can be. He’s been helping people in situations just like yours find clarity, take action, and get the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver, it’s a good idea to contact his office as soon as possible to talk about your options.
Understanding the Problem of Uninsured Drivers in Illinois
In Illinois, about one out of every six drivers on the road has no car insurance at all. According to Bankrate, the uninsured rate in the state sits at roughly 16.3 percent. For anyone who spends time behind the wheel, that statistic should raise some concern.
People drive without insurance for all kinds of reasons. Some let their policies lapse, others may not be able to afford coverage, and some choose to take the risk of driving illegally. Whatever the reason, the result is the same. If you’re hit by one of these drivers, you could be left facing medical bills, car repairs, and lost income without any help from the other party’s insurance.
Even though Illinois law requires uninsured motorist coverage as part of the standard insurance policy, using that coverage can be harder than most expect. The process often involves back-and-forth with insurance companies, and payouts aren’t always fair.
Recognizing how common this issue is can help you prepare and take steps to protect yourself before you’re left footing the bill.
Your Legal Options After an Uninsured Driver Accident
Getting into an accident is bad enough. Finding out the other driver has no insurance can make things feel even worse. But in Illinois, you still have a few solid options to help recover your losses.
The most common is using your uninsured motorist coverage. Most drivers in the state carry this as part of their auto policy. It can help pay for medical bills, missed work, and sometimes even pain and suffering, depending on your coverage limits.
You can also consider suing the driver who caused the crash. While that might seem like a good idea, it’s often tough to collect money from someone who has no insurance. Many uninsured drivers also have little or no assets, so even if you win in court, getting paid can be a challenge.
In certain cases, there might be other people or companies that share some responsibility. For example, if the driver borrowed someone’s car or was working at the time of the crash, you might be able to file a claim against those parties.
This is where having the right legal guidance matters. A skilled attorney can help you figure out which options make the most sense for your situation and make sure you don’t leave money on the table.
How an Attorney Can Maximize Your Recovery
After an accident with an uninsured driver, most people assume their insurance company will step in and make things right. But the truth is, it does not always work out that way. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize what they pay, even when you have coverage that is supposed to protect you.
This is where an attorney can make a big difference. A good lawyer will go through your policy carefully and help you understand exactly what benefits you have. They will handle the calls, the paperwork, and the back and forth with your insurance company so you do not have to carry that weight alone.
If the insurance company gives you a low offer or delays your claim, your attorney can step in and make sure they take your case seriously. In some situations, there may be other ways to recover money as well. For example, if the person who hit you was driving someone else’s car or was working at the time, other parties might also be responsible.
Attorney Michael J. Brennan has helped many people through these kinds of situations. He knows how to build a strong case, present the right evidence, and make sure your voice is heard. With someone like that on your side, you are in a much better position to get the recovery you truly deserve.
Speak With an Illinois Car Accident Lawyer Today
Being hit by a driver without insurance can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next. But you do not have to figure it out on your own. Illinois law gives you options, and with the right legal help, you can protect yourself and your future.
Attorney Michael J. Brennan has spent years standing up for people just like you. He understands the stress, the frustration, and the financial pressure that follow an accident. That is why he offers free legal consultations to help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.If you have been in a crash with an uninsured driver, now is the time to take action. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation and find out how Attorney Brennan can help you move forward with confidence.