What to Do After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but things get even more complicated when the other driver doesn’t carry insurance. Here in Alaska, where long commutes and winter roads make accidents more common, running into an uninsured driver can feel overwhelming. Even so, there are still several paths that can help you protect yourself and recover financially. At Denali Law Group, our Wasilla lawyers and Anchorage attorneys help clients through situations like this every day—and we’re here to walk you through the steps.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

If you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance, what you do right away can make a big difference. First, check for injuries to yourself and others. Then call 911 so law enforcement can document the crash. A police report becomes especially important when dealing with an uninsured driver.

Next, collect as much information as you can. Get the other driver’s name and contact details, write down the vehicle information, and take photos of the scene, damage, and surroundings. These details will matter later. After that, contact your insurance company to report the accident. Most states—including Alaska—use an at‑fault system, meaning the person who caused the crash is financially responsible. The claims process depends heavily on the fault determination.

When the Uninsured Driver Is At Fault

If the uninsured driver caused the accident, your own insurance policy may help fill the coverage gap. Many Alaskans choose to carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can help pay for medical bills, injuries, and sometimes property damage when the at‑fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance.

You may also have optional coverages such as collision insurance or personal injury protection (PIP). Collision coverage helps pay for vehicle repairs regardless of fault, while PIP may cover medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers. If you don’t have these optional protections, your recovery options may be more limited.

Considering Legal Action

Depending on the situation, you might consider filing a lawsuit against the uninsured driver. Legal action can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. However, pursuing a lawsuit doesn’t always guarantee a meaningful recovery. Drivers without insurance often lack financial resources, which can make collecting a judgment difficult.

Speaking with an attorney who handles personal injury in Alaska is one of the best ways to understand your options. At Denali Law Group, our team can help you evaluate whether legal action is worth pursuing, review your documentation, and guide you through the process with straight‑forward, local insight.

If the Accident Was a Hit-and-Run

Hit‑and‑run accidents involving unidentified drivers work much like uninsured motorist claims. Because the at‑fault driver can’t be located, your uninsured motorist coverage typically steps in. In these cases, it’s crucial to file a police report right away and notify your insurer quickly, since timely reporting is often required for coverage to apply.

Managing the Aftermath of an Uninsured Driver Accident

Regardless of how the accident happened, dealing with an uninsured driver can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure of what to do next. Between filing paperwork, monitoring medical care, and navigating insurance claims, the process can feel overwhelming. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly reduce that stress. Our team at Denali Law Group can help negotiate with insurance companies, gather the right documentation, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.

One of the best ways to prepare for situations like this is to review your auto insurance policy before an accident ever occurs. Adding protections like uninsured motorist coverage or collision insurance can make a huge difference in your financial recovery if the unexpected happens.

Accidents involving uninsured drivers can complicate the path to recovery, but prompt action, strong documentation, and the right legal guidance can help you protect yourself. If you’ve been in an accident anywhere in Wasilla, Palmer, Anchorage, or the Mat‑Su Valley, our team is here to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.