Many people believe that if they have been hit by an uninsured motorist, they have no way to pursue a claim. This leads them to believe they will also have to pay out of pocket for all the injuries and damages they have sustained.
Even drivers who know better will sometimes be given the runaround by their own insurance company .
If you have been hit by an uninsured motorist, then regardless of which scenario best describes your situation, a Salt Lake City uninsured motorist accident lawyer can help you figure out the best way to receive the compensation you are due.
Understanding Uninsured Motorists
Even though being insured is legally required to drive in Utah, some people elect to go uninsured and drive illegally anyway.
An uninsured motorist may not have an insurance company, but you can still file a claim against the individual and win your case if his or her negligence caused the accident. You have the right to sue for any damages incurred in the accident, and you should take full advantage by seeking compensation for what’s been done to you.
Uninsured Motorist Provision
If you have an uninsured motorist provision in your insurance policy, it will cover your injuries and damages up to its limit.
Unfortunately, many people do not have this provision and will hopefully be covered by other parts of their policy instead.
If you do not have an uninsured motorist provision on your insurance policy, it is important to involve a Salt Lake City uninsured motorist accident lawyer from the beginning. Even if you do, most insurance companies will try to settle for the least possible amount; we can evaluate any offers and inform you of whether the amount is fair.
An Uninsured Motorist Assumes Personal Liability
A motorist who chooses to drive without insurance assumes all liability if he or she causes an accident . The uninsured driver is personally responsible for any damages resulting from his or her negligent driving.
Collecting on a Judgment Against an Uninsured Motorist
If an uninsured motorist is found negligent for the accident and your injuries, a judgment may be rendered against him or her. Under Utah law, you would then have the right to collect on that judgement. Doing so will require the following:
- Keeping records of all court documents related to the judgment will be essential throughout the process.
- A Writ of Garnishment may be used to garnish payment from the uninsured motorist’s paycheck or bank account.
- A Writ of Execution may be used to have a sheriff seize some of the uninsured motorist’s property, which will then be sold. The proceeds will be paid to you as part of your settlement.
- You may file a judgment lien so that the other driver cannot sell property without first satisfying the judgment.
We Can Help You Collect
The options for collecting on judgments can be almost as complicated as the original personal injury case. In addition to the case itself, a Salt Lake City uninsured motorist accident lawyer can help you to determine which option to pursue and then execute it.
Contact an Attorney
Regardless of whether you need a Salt Lake City uninsured motorist accident lawyer or they were fully covered, you deserve financial compensation for any injuries or damages caused by someone else’s negligence.
To discuss your case and your options in further detail, contact Craig Swapp & Associates by calling 1-800-404-9000 or reaching us online.
Schedule a Free Consultation
or call: 800-404-9000
Client Reviews
“I was concerned with all the paperwork”
Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.
Amber W.,
Spokane, WA
"I would hire them in a second"
My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.
Robert N.,
Spokane, WA
"I was afraid of the fees"
I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.
Lacey B.,
Salt Lake City, UT
"I was afraid that my issue was too small"
I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.
J. Rohas,
Caldwell, ID
"I am very pleased with the results"
My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.
Dollie J.,
West Jordan, UT