When An Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Injures You Or Damages Your Property

Ohio requires all drivers to have some form of liability insurance, called “financial responsibility” (FR). Failure to maintain proper insurance coverage is illegal, and may result in fines and penalties. It is also illegal for a motor vehicle owner to allow anyone else to drive his or her vehicle without FR.

Proof of coverage is required whenever a police officer stops a vehicle, at vehicle inspection stops, during traffic court appearances and upon random checks by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. Unfortunately, not everyone has proper insurance, which leaves accident victims wondering how to pay for their damages when an uninsured driver is to blame for the crash.

If you are injured or your property damaged by an uninsured or underinsured drive, you should speak with a lawyer. The auto accident team at Crandall & Pera Law has the expertise to help you recover full and fair compensation for your medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The At-Fault Driver Had No Insurance

A negligent driver who is uninsured is personally liable for his or her share of the damages, and may be sued by the other driver to recover them. If uninsured, he or she will also be subject to the penalties the law provides for violating the FR statute.

What Are The Minimum Standards For FR?

The minimum liability coverage is set by law at $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to two or more persons and $25,000 for property damage. In lieu of an insurance policy, a driver may establish FR by:

• A surety bond of $30,000 issued by any authorized surety company or insurance company
• A Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) bond secured by real estate having equity of at least $60,000
• A BMV certificate for money or government bonds in the amount of $30,000 on deposit with the Office of the Ohio Treasurer

The payouts under minimum coverage are very low considering the cost of medical care and the possibility that more than two people might be seriously injured.

Is Insurance Available To Protect Other Drivers Against Loss Or Injury Caused By Uninsured Drivers?

Yes. Optional medical coverage (Med-Pay) indemnifies against bodily injury by uninsured and underinsured motorists. Optional physical damage coverage is also available to indemnify against loss by uninsured motorists’ collision and property damage.

Crandall & Pera Law Can Help

If an uninsured or underinsured driver negligently causes you injury or damages your property, he or she is personally responsible for the costs arising from it. Our experienced attorneys are familiar with all aspects of Ohio vehicular laws, and can dispute your degree of responsibility, if any, for the accident.

Please call us at 855-444-6651 or complete our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation. We have offices conveniently located in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Chesterland and Chagrin Falls.