Every year, thousands of people opt to use self-service trucks like u-hauls to move into new homes, complete projects, and much more. While services such as u-haul may make the process less expensive, most drivers are not experienced in driving commercial vehicles. As a result, accidents can occur. So, what happens if a u-haul driver hits you with insufficient or no insurance? Our South Carolina car accident attorney can help evaluate your case and determine if you may have a claim and how to pursue it.
Accidents With Moving Trucks Can Be More Severe
Unfortunately, because of the scale and weight of many commercial vehicles, they have the potential to do a lot of damage. Moving trucks also have more blind spots than your average vehicle, and many U-Haul drivers are inexperienced at driving commercial vehicles. As a result, an accident involving a u-haul can cause a lot of damage, and injuries can be significant.
So, what recourse do you have if a u-haul hits you? U-Haul and similar companies typically require proof of insurance before they allow a person to rent their vehicles. However, this does not guarantee that the driver’s insurance will have sufficient coverage if an accident does occur. A person may also be insured, but their insurance coverage may exclude operating a commercial vehicle. If you are faced with this situation, you may have other options.
File an Uninsured Motorist Coverage Claim
South Carolina law requires that every driver carry uninsured motorist coverage for personal injuries and related damages of $25,000 per person, or $50,000 for all people, per accident. This is the minimum required coverage, and you can also purchase more coverage. An uninsured motorist coverage claim can cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering (up to the coverage limit).
If you are injured or you suffer property damage from a U-Haul driver with inadequate coverage, you may be able to file an uninsured motorist claim to cover your losses. You may even be able to stack insurance coverage across multiple policies. An experienced attorney can help you evaluate if this is possible.
File an Underinsured Motorist Coverage Claim
A second option that may be available is filing an underinsured motorist coverage claim. This insurance is similar to uninsured motorist coverage. The difference is that it could pay what remains uncovered of your injuries and property damage if the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover these items. Although insurance companies are required to offer drivers this type of insurance coverage, they are not required to buy it in South Carolina.
You should be aware, however, that you can only recover damages through either underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage. This can be confusing, and having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can be invaluable.
Speak With an Attorney Right Away
You should contact a lawyer for advice if a u-haul driver has hit you with insufficient or no insurance. The sooner the better. You have a limited amount of time in which you may be able to file a claim in South Carolina. The statute of limitations for these types of claims is three years, with some exceptions.
Our firm knows how to protect your rights and deal with insurance companies. Contact our office today for a free consultation.