Auto insurance is mandatory in Mississippi, but not everyone follows the law. Statistics from the Insurance Information Institute (III) report that Mississippi consistently ranks among the top 10 states — and often takes the number one spot — for the highest percentage of uninsured motorists. When someone without insurance causes a wreck, accident victims may face lasting injuries, expensive medical bills, and a ton of uncertainty.
If you suffered injuries in a crash with an uninsured driver, you may be able to recover compensation if you purchased uninsured motorist coverage in Mississippi. At Mama Justice – MW Law Firm, we know you’ve been through a lot. Let us help you understand the terms of your policy and your right to compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM)?
Mississippi uninsured motorist insurance, also known as UM coverage, provides financial protection if you’re injured in a crash caused by a driver who does not carry liability insurance. When an uninsured driver causes a wreck, your UM coverage may provide compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Uninsured motorist coverage can also apply to hit-and-run accidents, providing an extra layer of protection if the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be identified.
In addition to UM, you can also purchase underinsured motorist coverage in Mississippi (UIM). This type of automobile liability insurance fills in the gaps when an insured driver’s coverage exceeds the at-fault driver’s policy limits, but doesn’t cover all your damages.
Is UM Coverage Required in Mississippi?
Mississippi law requires all insurance companies to offer UM coverage to drivers, but purchasing it is optional. However, you must reject the coverage in writing. If you don’t remember signing a waiver, you may have UM liability coverage on your auto insurance policy without realizing it.
If you’re unsure whether or not you rejected UM insurance coverage, ask an insurance agent to review your policy. A Mississippi car accident lawyer can determine whether you have a case and assist throughout the legal process.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Matters in Mississippi
According to the most recent III data, over a quarter of Mississippi drivers are uninsured. That sobering fact makes getting behind the wheel without UM coverage a significant risk on Mississippi roads.
Sometimes, what seems like a minor car accident at first can result in serious injuries later. For example, even low-speed collisions can cause a concussion. The costs of medical treatment for a brain injury and time off work to recover can be substantial. UM coverage can be a lifesaver in situations like this, allowing you to pursue compensation even though the at-fault driver lacked insurance.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Pay For?
Uninsured motorist coverage in Mississippi is designed to step in when a negligent driver doesn’t have the insurance to cover the damage they’ve caused. Typically, a car accident victim would file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. In UM cases, you file a claim with your own insurance company.
Depending on your policy, UM may help cover:
- Medical bills and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost future income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim in Mississippi
Recovering compensation through a UM claim can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the process. A skilled uninsured motorist attorney can guide you with filing a Mississippi car accident claim by:
- Reviewing your case to determine whether you have a valid UM claim
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence
- Placing a fair value on your case
- Sending a demand letter to the insurance company
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Going to trial (if necessary)
Insurance companies fight to protect their profits by looking for reasons to weaken auto accident claims and minimize payouts — even your own insurer. The adjuster may argue that:
- Your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.
- The uninsured driver didn’t cause the accident.
- Your policy doesn’t cover your damages.
You don’t have to fight unfair insurance tactics by yourself. Seek legal help immediately if the insurance company delays or denies your claim.
How a Mississippi Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can be a valuable asset after a car wreck. Organizing the documentation you need for a persuasive insurance claim can be a massive undertaking, especially when you’re trying to heal.
A car accident lawyer in Mississippi can take the pressure off by:
- Reviewing your policy – Your attorney can carefully review the language of your policy to determine whether you paid for underinsured motorist coverage or never signed a form rejecting it.
- Collecting evidence – Solid car accident claims require compelling proof of negligence. Your car accident lawyer can gather police reports, witness statements, medical records, financial documents, and expert testimony to prove your claim.
- Handling insurance talks – It’s much harder for insurance companies to play games when their only connection to you is through your car accident attorney. Your lawyer can manage all necessary communications and keep you updated.
- Fighting for full and fair compensation – Your attorney’s job is to advocate aggressively for maximum compensation and a fair resolution to your car accident case.
Why Choose Mama Justice?
When you select Mama Justice to handle your Mississippi car accident claim, you’ll get a legal team that brings empathy, grit, and determination to your case. We know our clients are more than just victims. They’re parents, siblings, friends, and loved ones who are facing unthinkable circumstances.
When you choose Mama Justice, you’ll get:
- Compassionate guidance – We offer clients skilled legal support based on years of legal practice. But that’s not all. You get nurturing, understanding, and moral support at Mama Justice.
- Tailored strategies – No two cases are identical, and every client has unique needs. We customize our approach to car accident cases based on your individual circumstances.
- Time and attention – Your case matters to us. We’ll dedicate the time, attention, and resources needed to fight for maximum compensation.
- Holistic legal representation – Our medical management staff will create a comprehensive healing plan with referrals to healthcare providers who can assist on your path to recovery.
Help is Here. Contact Us for a Free Consultation with Our Mississippi Car Accident Lawyers
If you suffered injuries in a car wreck caused by an uninsured driver, Mama Justice is here to help. We’re the fastest-growing, female-owned law firm in the United States, and we’ve received 400+ five-star reviews from satisfied clients. We can determine all legal avenues for recovering the compensation you deserve and lead you through the process of seeking it. Contact us today for your free case review.