Uninsured and Underinsured Driver Accident Lawyers in Schenectady, NY

Getting into a car accident can be overwhelming enough. However, discovering that the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance can make the situation far more upsetting. Fortunately, you still have avenues to compensation that you can explore, though you’ll need a skilled attorney to lead you through them.

The uninsured driver accident attorneys at Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP proudly help Schenectady residents recover the compensation they deserve in situations like these. We can step in early to protect your rights and help determine your options. Contact us today to learn more at a free, no-obligation consultation.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists on Schenectady Roads

New York law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance that covers other people injured in collisions they cause. Unfortunately, not every driver follows the law, and minimum liability insurance can only cover so much before damage exceeds policy limits. 

Common reasons for uninsured or underinsured driver crashes include the following:

• Drivers who let policies lapse due to cost
• Out-of-state motorists with low coverage limits
• Drivers who carry only minimum insurance
• Hit-and-run drivers who are never identified

When uninsured or underinsured drivers cause a crash, victims are left without the protections afforded by adequate liability coverage. However, with the help of a dedicated uninsured or underinsured driver accident lawyer, victims are not without options. 

What to Do After Being Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver

You can make a big difference in the outcome of your car accident claim by taking quick, decisive action. Be sure to do the following:

• Call the authorities.
• Collect evidence if you can.
• Seek medical care, even if you feel fine.
• Notify your insurer, but keep your conversation brief.

Finally, contact a skilled uninsured/underinsured driver accident attorney. They can explain your legal options and help you seek the compensation you’re entitled to. 

What Are Your Options for Compensation After an Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accident?

You may have several options for pursuing compensation after an uninsured/underinsured motorist accident, including the following:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – PIP covers medical bills and lost wages (up to policy limits) after a car accident, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – This coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance or leaves the scene of the accident. 
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage – This coverage applies when the at-fault party’s policy is insufficient to cover the full extent of your injuries.
• Supplemental Underinsured Motorist (SUM) Coverage – Many New York drivers carry additional protection, like SUM coverage, that expands recovery options when an underinsured motorist causes an accident.
• Third-Party Claims – In some cases, other parties share fault, such as employers or vehicle owners. You can potentially pursue compensation from them in a separate claim. 

Recoverable Damages After an Accident with an Uninsured/Underinsured Driver in Schenectady

Serious crashes cause not only financial damage but also significant personal harm. Compensation in personal injury claims can account for these losses, including the following:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage, such as vehicle repair/replacement

Why Hire Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP for Your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claim?

The car accident attorney you choose to represent you can be the biggest decision you make when pursuing compensation in a car accident claim. DMB Legal offers the following:

• A Strong Reputation – We have a strong track record of success for accident victims in New York’s Capital Region, and we’re proud to say many clients do repeat business with us.
• Personal Attention – You’re not just another case number at our firm. We take the time to understand your case and your needs so we can tailor a personalized strategy to achieve your goals.
• Clear and Honest Communication – We prioritize strong communication at our firm. Our lawyers are available 24/7 and provide quick responses to calls, messages, and emails.
• Tenacious Representation – We don’t back down to big insurance companies. When they see that we represent you, they know they’re in for a fight. 
• No Fee Unless We Win – You won’t pay anything up front for our services, and you won’t owe us anything at all unless we recover your compensation.

FAQs

The following are the answers to some of the most common questions our car accident lawyers for uninsured motorist claims receive.

Is uninsured motorist coverage mandatory in New York?

Yes. New York requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. If you have auto insurance in New York, you have UM coverage.

What if the other driver has some insurance, but it’s not enough?

When the other driver’s insurance does not cover all the damage, your own underinsured motorist coverage may apply. 

How long do I have to file an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim in New York?

Deadlines vary depending on the policy language and the accident circumstances. Some policies require notice within a short time frame. Speak with a lawyer right away to avoid missed deadlines.

Will filing an uninsured motorist claim increase my insurance premiums?

New York generally protects drivers from premium increases when another driver causes the crash. However, that’s not always the case. An experienced attorney can help protect your interests.

What if my insurance company denies my uninsured/underinsured motorist claim?

A denial does not end your case. In fact, insurers will often approve claims they initially denied, particularly when an attorney is involved. A lawyer can help you challenge the denial and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Contact the Schenectady Uninsured/Underinsured Car Accident Lawyers at Dalmata, Maloy & Burke, LLP Now

The team at DMB Legal has over 30 years of experience fighting for the rights of Schenectady car accident victims. In that time, we’ve recovered millions in verdicts and settlements for our clients. Some of them have shared their thoughts on the quality of the services we provide: 

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with the firm and more specifically Cory Dalmata on numerous occasions and am beyond pleased with their work. Professional, responsive and knew they always had my best interests in mind. Thank you!”—Steve G., client.

We will fight for the financial stability you deserve, regardless of what kind of insurance the at-fault party carries. Contact us today for your free, fully confidential consultation.