Being injured in a car accident is overwhelming enough. When the other driver turns out to be uninsured, the situation becomes even more complicated. Connecticut law requires drivers to carry minimum auto insurance, including:
- Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Even with these laws in place, some drivers don’t follow them. So what happens if you’re hit by an uninsured driver—and is it worth suing them?
When Suing May Not Make Sense
If the uninsured driver has no assets—no savings, property, or steady income—a lawsuit may not provide much relief.
Why not?
- Even if you win a judgment, collecting compensation may be impossible.
- The driver may set up small long-term payments that barely cover your losses.
- In some cases, they may file for bankruptcy, wiping out what you’re owed.
In short, if the driver has no ability to pay, the time and cost of a lawsuit could outweigh the benefit.
When Suing Could Be Worthwhile
Not all uninsured drivers are without resources. Some may own property, have investments, or maintain steady income. In these cases, pursuing a lawsuit could be worthwhile.
When to consider suing:
- The driver has property or other attachable assets.
- You’ve suffered significant medical bills, lost wages, or other damages.
Potential benefits:
- A court can order compensation and may place liens on the driver’s property.
- You may recover more than your insurance would provide on its own.
But remember, building a case requires strong evidence: police reports, medical records, proof of expenses, and financial investigation of the other driver’s ability to pay.
Other Paths to Compensation
Even if suing the uninsured driver isn’t realistic, you may still have options.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Your own policy may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses caused by an uninsured driver.
- Third-Party Liability: Sometimes, another party may share responsibility. If the driver was using a company vehicle, the employer could be liable. Poor road design or another driver’s negligence could also factor into your case.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Each case is unique. The decision to sue depends on the uninsured driver’s financial situation, your insurance coverage, and the details of the crash.
At the Law Offices of Charles L. Kurmay, we help clients understand their options and take the best path forward. Connecticut law gives you two years to file a personal injury claim, so acting quickly is essential.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been injured in an accident with an uninsured driver in Connecticut, don’t face the process alone. Our attorneys can help you evaluate your options, whether that means pursuing the driver directly, using your uninsured motorist coverage, or holding a third party accountable.
Call the Law Offices of Charles L. Kurmay today at (203) 380-1743 to schedule a confidential consultation and protect your right to compensation.
