Those suffering injuries from a car crash are entitled to recovery. This is true whether you are in a car crash involving multiple cars or only a single vehicle. Crashes with a single vehicle may include drivers who are friends, an acquaintance, or even a family member. The bottom line is that auto insurance will cover single vehicle car crashes.
UNDERSTANDING CAR INSURANCE
Three types of car insurance are normally found in Alaska, including:
- Liability insurance;
- Uninsured and underinsured motorists (often referred to as U/UIM); and
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay).
An Alaskan personal injury attorney can review the drivers insurance and even passengers insurance to determine if the policy applies to the crash.
1. LIABILITY BODILY INJURY INSURANCE
Alaska drivers must maintain at least 50/100 ($50K per person, up to $100K per incident) of liability insurance. This insurance normally covers against “loss from the liability imposed by law for damages that arise from the ownership, maintenance, or use of a designated motor vehicle.” It also normally insures against loss “imposed by law for damages that arise from use by the operator of a motor vehicle not owned by the operator.” In other words, liability insurance covers named insured and all those operating the insured vehicle with the owner’s permission.
2. UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE
Most drivers also carry uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This is a low cost insurance policy that protects drivers hit by people violating the law and not carrying required liability insurance. It can also provide coverage when there is a hit and run accident. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage normally extends to all occupants of the insured vehicle, including family members. It is also personal. That means your U/UIM insurance covers you whether you are in your own car or not. Alaskan case law provides that U/UIM insurance even covers people hurt by uninsured/underinsured motorists while “on a pogo stick.”
3. MEDICAL PAYMENTS COVERAGE
Medical Payments refers to coverage included on some car insurance policies that pays medical expenses for all occupants in a vehicle suffering injuries from a crash. The coverage will cover both the person insured and passengers. MedPay covers injuries regardless of who causes the crash. Like U/UIM coverage, MedPay is personal. It normally covers you and your family even while in another person’s car, walking along a street, or on a pogo stick in Australia. It is a low cost insurance option that can be added to most insurance policies.
If you have suffer injuries following a car crash, even if it was a single car crash, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. This can include lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Having an Alaska personal injury attorney who understands the ins and outs of the Alaska court system is essential. Our attorneys will review your case at no cost.
Understandably, some people are uncomfortable with the thought of suing another family member. Fortunately, Alaskan law provides for a way around that problem. At Merdes Law Office, P.C., we understand the purpose of insurance is to protect your family from catastrophic medical bills, regardless of who is at fault. Contact our office to meet with our highly experienced and reputable Alaska personal injury attorney to discuss your case: 907.452.5400 or visit www.merdes.com for further information.
And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do.
