You are in a car wreck. The other driver ran a stop sign and caused the crash, but the police officer at the scene confirms that the other driver does not have liability auto insurance. Meanwhile, your car is in ruins. You are hurt. Fortunately, you recently renewed your auto insurance coverage and bought  uninsured/underinsured  motorist coverage. Now what? 

First, obtain necessary medical care.  Your well being is most important. Once you have obtained the necessary emergency care, promptly report the crash to your insurance carrier.  Your auto policy probably requires you to timely report the crash and to cooperate in its investigation.  Most likely, your insurance company will soon have an adjuster contact you and often times request that you give a recorded statement.  Be careful.  What you say  is sometimes  used by your auto carrier to deny your uninsured motorist claim.  

At this point, you have a decision to make.  You have to decide whether you want to go it alone and navigate the uninsured motorist claim yourself, or consult an attorney who is experienced in handling cases involving uninsured motorist coverage. Uninsured motorist claims sometimes involve unique legal issues that can actually work to your benefit despite the insurance adjuster’s unwillingness to timely and fairly adjust your claim. Of course every case is different.  Whether you need an attorney depends on your particular circumstances, your injuries, the liability facts, and the insurance company’s attitude toward your claim.  Use your best judgement.

If you have any doubt, consult an attorney trained and experienced in handling these cases. The attorney can explain your rights, and make sure the insurance company adjusts your claim reasonably.