Being involved in a serious car accident is stressful enough, but when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, the situation can feel overwhelming. In Idaho, victims of uninsured motorist (UM) crashes face unique legal and financial challenges, especially when injuries are severe and require surgeries, long-term care, or rehabilitation.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we help clients across Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Twin Falls, and throughout Idaho take immediate, strategic steps to protect their rights and pursue full compensation. Here’s what you need to know after a serious collision with an uninsured driver.
Immediate Steps to Protect Yourself
Seek Medical Attention Without Delay
Your first priority is health and safety. Even if injuries seem minor, some car accident injuries, like internal bleeding, spinal injuries, or concussions, may not show immediate symptoms.
- Visit the hospital or a qualified physician promptly.
- Document all treatments, diagnostic tests, and prescriptions.
- Keep records of ongoing care, including physical therapy or follow-up visits.
Thorough medical documentation is crucial in UM claims and can help establish the full extent of your injuries.
Notify Your Insurance Company
In Idaho, your own auto insurance may include uninsured motorist coverage. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the accident. Be prepared to provide:
- Details about the crash, including location, date, and time
- Photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting initial settlement offers without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts, especially in UM cases.
Preserve Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, document the accident immediately:
- Take photographs of all vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Record damage to your vehicle and any debris on the road
- Collect witness names and statements
Preserving evidence quickly is vital to reconstruct the accident and support your claim.
Contact an Experienced Idaho Auto Injury Attorney
Uninsured motorist claims can be complex, particularly when injuries are serious. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we:
- Review your insurance policy and UM coverage limits
- Ensure medical records, treatment notes, and diagnostic tests are properly documented
- Communicate with insurers to negotiate fair compensation
- File a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights
Prompt legal action is critical in Idaho, as it helps safeguard evidence, strengthens your case, and increases the likelihood of recovering the full compensation you deserve.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Matters
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage exists to protect victims when the at-fault driver is unable to pay for the damages. This coverage can apply to:
- Medical bills, including emergency care, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation
- Lost wages if injuries prevent you from returning to work
- Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma caused by the accident
In serious accidents, UM coverage can mean the difference between fully recovering from your injuries and facing significant financial hardship.
Acting Quickly Makes a Difference
Time is critical when dealing with uninsured motorist claims in Idaho. Prompt steps help:
- Secure and preserve critical evidence
- Document serious injuries and long-term care needs
- Prevent insurers from disputing liability or limiting payouts
- Ensure your legal rights are protected under Idaho law
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we focus on severe injury cases and understand how to move quickly to protect clients’ interests. From the moment you contact us, we work to safeguard your claim and maximize recovery.
Protecting Your Recovery After an Uninsured Accident
Dealing with a serious car accident caused by an uninsured driver is stressful, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. By seeking medical care, notifying your insurer, preserving evidence, and contacting a trusted Idaho attorney, you can protect your rights and pursue full compensation for injuries and damages.
If you’ve been involved in a crash in Boise Valley, Idaho, Johnson & Lundgreen is ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation so we can review your case, advise on UM coverage, and guide you through every step of recovery.