Learn About Delaware Uninsured Motorist Laws
Driving on the road always carries a certain amount of risk, and one of these risks is encountering an uninsured motorist. To protect its citizens, each state in the United States has developed laws pertaining to uninsured motorist.
The state of Delaware is no exception, having established comprehensive uninsured motorist laws. These laws provide a legal framework and safeguards for dealing with situations that involve uninsured motorist. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about uninsured motorist laws in Delaware.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage is an important aspect of your automobile insurance policy that provides protection for you and your family in the event of an accident caused by a driver who does not have sufficient insurance coverage.
In Delaware, there are minimum insurance requirements, but some drivers do not have this coverage. If you are injured in a car accident and the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance, you may be able to seek compensation through your own insurance policy.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Laws in Delaware
Delaware’s uninsured motorist laws are designed to protect not only the victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers but also individuals who suffer injuries in hit-and-run incidents. These laws stipulate that all motor vehicle insurance policies issued in Delaware must include uninsured motorist coverage. The coverage should be at least $15,000 for one person and $30,000 for all persons injured in any one accident.
Purpose of Uninsured Motorist Laws in Delaware
The primary purpose of uninsured motorist laws in Delaware is to ensure that victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers have a source of compensation for their injuries and property damage. The laws are meant to discourage driving without insurance, which is illegal in Delaware, and to protect law-abiding citizens from the financial consequences of accidents caused by uninsured drivers.
What Happens if You’re Struck by an Uninsured Driver in Delaware
If you are hit by an uninsured driver in Delaware, your uninsured motorist coverage will kick in to cover your medical expenses and property damage. This coverage will also cover you if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident where the other driver cannot be identified.
However, it is important to note that your uninsured motorist coverage will only cover your losses up to the limits of your policy. If your losses exceed your policy limits, you may need to sue the uninsured driver to recover the remaining amount.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works
Uninsured motorist coverage in Delaware works by stepping in to pay for your losses when the at-fault driver does not have insurance. This coverage is part of your own auto insurance policy and is not dependent on the other driver’s insurance status.
When you report an accident to your insurance company, they will investigate the incident. If they determine that the other driver was at fault and did not have insurance, they will pay for your losses up to the limits of your uninsured motorist coverage.
The Importance of Having Adequate Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Having adequate uninsured motorist coverage is important for several reasons. First, it protects you financially in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver. Without this coverage, you may be left to cover your own medical expenses and property damage.
Second, having adequate coverage can also protect you in the event of a hit-and-run accident. Your uninsured motorist coverage can step in to cover your losses even if the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Delaware
Driving without insurance is illegal in Delaware and can result in severe penalties. If you are caught driving without insurance, you can be fined between $1,500 and $2,000 for a first offense and between $3,000 and $4,000 for subsequent offenses within three years. You may also have your driving privileges suspended for six months.
Conclusion
Delaware’s uninsured motorist laws are designed to protect law-abiding drivers from the financial consequences of accidents caused by uninsured drivers. By requiring all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, these laws ensure that victims of accidents have a source of compensation for their injuries and property damage. However, it is important for drivers to understand these laws and to ensure that they have adequate uninsured motorist coverage to protect themselves and their families.
By understanding and complying with the uninsured motorist laws in Delaware, you can contribute to making the roads safer for everyone. Remember, driving without insurance is not only illegal, but it also puts you and others at risk. Therefore, always make sure you have enough coverage to protect yourself and others on the road.
If you have been involved in an accident where the at-fault party does not have sufficient insurance coverage, it is crucial to seek legal assistance from a Delaware Accident Attorney that specializes in handling uninsured motorist claims and underinsured motorist claims in Delaware. Attorneys at Bove & Hedrick can help, reach out to them at (302) 777-3500 for a complimentary consultation. Our experienced Newark Delaware personal injury lawyers can assist you with your uninsured or underinsured motorist accident claim.