What Happens If You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Rhode Island?
Car accidents are stressful enough — but finding out the other driver doesn’t have insurance can make the situation even more complicated. Unfortunately, this does happen, and many drivers wonder what their options are if they’re hit by an uninsured motorist.
In Rhode Island, there are protections in place that can help drivers handle this type of situation, but understanding how they work is key.
Rhode Island Requires Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Rhode Island law requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage (UM coverage) as part of their auto insurance policy.
This coverage is designed to help protect you if:
The at-fault driver has no insurance
You’re involved in a hit-and-run accident
The other driver cannot be identified
UM coverage helps fill the gap when the responsible driver cannot pay for damages.
What Uninsured Motorist Coverage Typically Covers
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, your UM coverage may help pay for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering (in certain cases)
This coverage is focused on injury-related costs, helping protect you financially if you’re hurt in an accident.
What About Damage to Your Vehicle?
Uninsured motorist coverage may not always cover damage to your vehicle. That’s where other parts of your policy may apply.
Collision coverage can help pay for repairs to your car, regardless of who is at fault.
Without collision coverage, you may need to cover repair costs out of pocket if the at-fault driver is uninsured.
Filing a Claim After the Accident
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you would typically file a claim with your own insurance company.
The process may include:
Reporting the accident
Providing details about what happened
Submitting photos or documentation of the damage
Working with an adjuster to evaluate the claim
Even though the other driver is at fault, your insurer handles the claim through your UM or collision coverage.
What If the Other Driver Is Underinsured?
In some cases, the other driver may have insurance — but not enough to cover the full cost of damages.
This is where underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) may apply. It can help cover the difference between the at-fault driver’s limits and your actual expenses.
Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver?
While it is possible to pursue legal action against an uninsured driver, it may not always be practical. Drivers without insurance often lack the financial resources to pay for damages, which is why uninsured motorist coverage is so important.
Steps to Take After the Accident
If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, taking the right steps can help protect your claim:
Call the police and file a report
Gather as much information as possible
Take photos of the scene and vehicle damage
Notify your insurance company promptly
Documentation can help support your claim and ensure the process moves forward smoothly.
Why This Coverage Matters
Accidents involving uninsured drivers can create financial uncertainty, but having the right coverage in place helps protect you from unexpected costs.
For Rhode Island drivers, uninsured motorist coverage plays an important role in ensuring that even if the other driver lacks insurance, you still have a path to financial protection.
