Victims of car accidents may have insurance policies that protect them. Sometimes, though, the coverage they have is not enough to cover the damages they incurred.
Drivers should know what to expect from insurance companies and at-fault drivers in case an accident occurs.
Policy requirements
In Iowa, all drivers must carry a minimum of 20/30/15 third-party liability coverage. Many drivers stick to the minimum to save money on their monthly bills. Unfortunately, severe accidents can lead to damages that are beyond the at-fault driver’s policy limits, making them personally liable for the difference. Higher policy limits allow higher payouts for victims.
Protective insurance
Liability coverage only protects other drivers. If drivers want to protect themselves, they should consider MedPay or personal injury protection to cover additional medical bills. Uninsured/underinsured driver insurance can also ensure that their insurer will cover what the at-fault driver cannot pay them, up to your policy limits. This protects them in instances of hit-and-runs, too. Drivers can also get collision and comprehensive, but those policies just cover property damage, not personal injury.
Personal injury cases
Without the right elective policies, people still may need to cover the lost wages and medical bills they incurred as a victim of a car accident. In this situation, they would have to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. The statute of limitations is two years in Iowa. Those considering building a case should gather essential pieces of evidence such as police reports, medical tests and bills, eyewitnesses, photographs and insurance claims information. The courts award damages based on the evidence they provide.
No one wants to pay for something that was not their fault. Insurance can offer some protections, but a lawsuit could potentially help victims recover full compensation.
