Question: I was rear-ended by a guy in a rental car at a traffic light on Government Street. He says he has no insurance. My car was totaled, and I was pretty badly injured. I have the Alabama minimum insurance, and my medical expenses are far higher than that. I need a new car and my medical bills paid. What can I do?
BILL: Typically, a rental company is not gonna let that car off the lot without some insurance. That is the first place I would go.
If you are not used to renting cars, here is how it works. The renter must prove they have insurance or buy it at the counter. Now, the rental company is more interested in making sure the money is there to replace their car. Still, at the least, I would argue that they had a responsibility to see that the minimum insurance required by Alabama was covered.
And as far as you are concerned, you may have more insurance than you realize. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had people say they did not have uninsured motorist coverage when they actually did.
Today, I met with a lady and asked if she had uninsured motorist coverage. She said she didn’t think so. In fact, she added that she had never heard of it before. Come to find out — not only did she have it, but she had $300,000 of it.
In her case, the reasons for the money are complex. But here is what you need to know. By law in Alabama, if you don’t waive uninsured motorist coverage, you have it. And let me tell you, a lot of people have this extremely inexpensive and beneficial coverage and don’t know it.
I hate to always say call a lawyer. Still, in this case, with a rental company, no insurance (maybe) on the other side, and a question about your uninsured motorist coverage, plus you’ve serious injuries, you need the help of someone who knows the angles. Call a local lawyer with experience in this type of case, and I suggest you do it soon.
Besides, you need to concentrate on getting well and not scrambling around trying to get things paid for.
CALL BILL
Injured? You can call Bill directly at 251-255-5000. He will talk to you for free.
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