The state of Ohio requires that every motorist carry motor vehicle insurance for his or her vehicle(s). Ohio law mandates that every driver carry a minimum of these amounts.
- $25,000 for bodily injury liability per individual
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 for property damage liability per accident
These coverages pay for damages that other drivers suffer if the policyholder causes an accident. Despite the very straightforward requirement, there are many drivers in Ohio who fail to obtain motor vehicle insurance at all.
Or sometimes, a driver with insurance may not have enough insurance to cover the full extent of the other party’s damages following an accident. To help protect yourself against these drivers, consider underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is exactly what it sounds like: if you have uninsured motorist coverage, and you are hit by a person who does not have insurance, the uninsured motorist part of your policy should cover your damages.
Uninsured motorist coverage will pay both the driver and passengers in the insured vehicle damages for bodily injury. A driver may also be able to purchase uninsured motorist property damage, which will cover any damages to the vehicle or other property that is sustained in the accident.
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Understanding Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Much like uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage offers protection to drivers involved in an accident with a driver who does not have enough insurance to fully cover damages. For example, if you are hit by a driver who has the minimum requirement for bodily injury liability, but the cost of your medical expenses is much more than the minimum, underinsured motorist coverage can protect you.
The Benefits of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Many drivers think that they don’t need uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. There are three major reasons uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is worth purchasing.
- Many drivers do not carry insurance at all
- Hit and run accidents can and do happen
- Comprehensive medical coverage may not cover things such as lost wages or disfigurement
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will pay accident-related medical costs, as well as wage loss and pain and suffering expenses. Additionally, as mentioned above, the coverage will cover you as well as any passengers in the vehicle at the time of accident.
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Recovering Compensation Following a Car Accident in Ohio
Purchasing uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is a wise idea. However, if you don’t purchase either and are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver in the state of Ohio, you have other options for recovering compensation. You can file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver to reclaim damages. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim for benefits, according to Ohio Revised Code section 2305.10.
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An Attorney Can Help You Reclaim the Benefits You Need
Knowing what to do following an accident can be scary, especially if the driver who hit you doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your injuries or property damage. To help you decide whether or not you should file a claim with your insurance company, or file a personal injury claim for damages, speak with an attorney.
At Bressman Law, our attorneys understand car accident law, insurance processes, and personal injury law, and can provide you with the legal advice you need moving forward. If you need help filing a claim for benefits, we’re ready to assist you today. You can reach us now at (614) 538-1116.
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