Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Cheyenne, WY

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Wyoming?

Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of insurance that covers your bodily injury losses if you’re in an accident that an uninsured driver causes. It will typically cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering for you and your passengers up to your limit.

In Wyoming, insurance companies must offer this option, but you can waive the coverage.

What Happens if an Uninsured Driver Causes an Accident in Cheyenne?

If an uninsured driver causes an accident in Cheyenne, you may worry that you can’t begin a claim, but that’s not necessarily the case. The officer who comes to the scene may cite the driver for not having insurance, and that driver can still face lawsuits. In many cases, you have the right to file against your own uninsured motorist coverage and then begin a lawsuit against the other party.

Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Apply to Hit-And-Run Accidents?Keep in mind that even if the other driver was uninsured, they can also pursue a claim against you if you were to blame for the collision. Even if you were partly to blame, though, you are not barred from recovering your losses because Wyoming has modified comparative negligence laws.

Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Apply to Hit-And-Run Accidents?

Uninsured motorist coverage can also address your losses if the other driver commits a hit and run. You may not be able to file directly against the other party unless law enforcement can find them, so you can turn to your own uninsured motorist coverage for help.

What Damages Can Be Recovered Through Uninsured Motorist Claims?

If you file an uninsured motorist claim, you can obtain coverage for your medical expenses, including any future needs you may have, as well as for your lost wages. Property damage is also included.

You can receive compensation for your loss of enjoyment of life and pain and suffering, too. However, you might be restricted by the exact coverage limit you have.

How Do You File an Uninsured Motorist Claim in Wyoming?

You will need to immediately report the accident to the police. Gather as much evidence as possible from the scene of the accident, and review your insurance policy.

You should then let your insurer know about the accident. Once you begin this claim, your insurer becomes your opponent. An insurer will do everything it can to minimize your losses, so you should always consult with an attorney before starting.

Can Your Insurance Company Deny or Reduce Your UM Claim?

Unfortunately, your insurance company can deny your uninsured motorist claim. Your insurer could state that you delayed in notifying them of the accident or that there are liability issues that need to be addressed. If you don’t have enough documentation or evidence to show the losses you sustained, the company will likely deny or reduce the claim.

You can also run into problems if your losses surpass your coverage. Insurers will not be able to address those losses and might even begin valuation disputes that question whether what you suffered is as significant as you state.

Why Uninsured Motorist Claims Are Treated Like Lawsuits

These claims are similar to lawsuits because your insurance will often become an adversary. It can act as the at-fault, uninsured driver and try to minimize your losses as much as possible. This defensive position on their part can mean negotiations, just as it would take place if you began a claim against another party’s insurer.

Do You Need a Lawyer for an Uninsured Motorist Claim?

It’s essential to have a lawyer in your corner when beginning any of these legal processes. You can expect your insurer to aggressively try to minimize the claim. The company may make a fast, low offer in the hope that you’ll accept it just to be done with the case.

Without an attorney by your side, you may be tempted to accept, which could be a mistake. You can usually walk away with a better settlement if you have help from an attorney.

How Wyoming Laws Affect Uninsured Motorist Compensation

Some of Wyoming’s laws can impact your compensation. For one thing, you must demonstrate that the other party was responsible for the accident. That’s because the state is one that follows a fault-based system.

Wyoming’s statute of limitations will also apply. Although you have four years to file, there are instances when that timeline could be shorter.

How Bachus & Schanker Helps Victims of Uninsured Drivers

At Bachus & Schanker, we offer the reliable and trusted legal support you need as you navigate the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured driver. Our uninsured motorist coverage lawyers can assist you in understanding the full scope of your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

We bring decades of experience to the table, along with a high level of compassion for each of our clients. You don’t have to deal with all of this on your own.