What to do if you're hit by an uninsured driver
If you're hit by an uninsured driver, focus on safety first. Check for injuries, document the accident, report it to the police, and contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most states require auto insurance, but uninsured drivers are still common. Knowing what steps to take and how your auto insurance coverage may help can make it easier to protect your finances and move forward after an accident.
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Steps to take after being hit by an uninsured driver
Accidents involving uninsured drivers may be more common than you think. In fact, about 15% of motorists nationwide were uninsured in 2023, according to a 2025 study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC). If you're involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, follow these steps to help protect your finances and ability to file a claim:
1. Check for injuries and call for medical help
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Some injuries may not be obvious at first. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Report the accident to police
Always report an accident involving an uninsured driver to the police. A police report creates an official record of what happened and can help when filing an insurance claim. When speaking with an officer, avoid speculation and report only the facts as you know them. Be sure to get a copy of the police report when it's available.
3. Exchange information with the other driver
Even if the other driver doesn't have insurance, exchange as much information as possible, including:
- Name and contact information
- Driver's license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make and model
If the other driver refuses to cooperate or leaves the scene, tell the police. Leaving the scene of an accident may qualify as a hit-and-run.
4. Document the accident scene
Clear documentation can help support your claim. Use your phone to take photos or videos of damage to all vehicles, location of the accident, road conditions, traffic signs in the area, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
5. Avoid informal payment agreements
An uninsured driver may offer to pay for vehicle or property damage out of pocket. While this may seem convenient, costs can increase if injuries or additional damage appear later. Relying on official documentation and insurance processes can help protect you if issues arise after the accident.
6. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible
Contact your insurer promptly to report the accident, even if the other driver caused it. Share all available details, including photos, witness information, and the police report number. Early reporting can help your insurer determine which coverages may apply and guide you through the next steps.
7. Understand how auto insurance coverage may help
If you're hit by an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist coverage may help cover certain costs. Here's a breakdown of all coverages that may apply:
| Coverage | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) | How it helpsMay help pay for medical treatment for you and your passengers after an accident caused by an uninsured driver |
| Uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) | How it helpsMay help to pay to repair or replace your vehicle or other property damaged by a driver with no insurance |
| Collision | How it helpsMay help pay for vehicle repairs after a collision, regardless of fault, including crashes with uninsured drivers |
| Medical Payments (MedPay) | How it helpsMay help cover medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault |
Note: It's important to note that coverage availability, requirements, and limits vary by state and policy.
Pro tip:
If you're in an accident with an uninsured driver, report the claim as soon as possible and ask whether uninsured motorist coverage applies. Early reporting can help prevent delays and clarify what costs may be covered.
8. Seek medical care and keep records
Consider seeing a doctor even if you don't immediately recognize an injury. Keep copies of medical bills, treatment plans, and records of time missed from work. These records can help support an insurance claim related to injuries caused by an uninsured driver.
9. Follow up on repairs and your claim
Work with your insurer to assess vehicle damage and coordinate repairs. If your vehicle isn't drivable, ask about rental or transportation options included in your policy. Keep in one place all claim-related documents such as repair estimates, invoices, and correspondence.
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