ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Accidents and Insurance

Insurance

How do I collect on my uninsured motorist coverage?

Generally, you must prove that the other driver was both at fault and without liability insurance to compensate you. An uninsured motorist actually may have no coverage, or may be de facto uninsured if underage, unlicensed, or otherwise ineligible for protection under the policy covering the vehicle that caused the accident, as, for example, when the driver at fault used the vehicle without the owner's permission. Practically speaking, if the insurance carrier of the driver at fault denies coverage, you are dealing with an uninsured motorist.