Car insurance provides a vital layer of protection, and it offers financial support to drivers who get into an accident regardless of who’s at fault. Failing to carry the minimum amount of coverage can have serious consequences that can affect your life and financial future. Here’s what you should know about uninsured car accidents.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Auto Insurance

In Alaska, every driver is required to carry at least $50,000 in coverage per person injured in an accident, $100,000 for total injuries, and a minimum of $25,000 in property damage. If you cause an accident without car insurance, anyone injured in the crash can file a lawsuit against you. If they win, they may garnish your wages or have your property seized.

There’s also a penalty for driving without the minimum amount of car insurance. Alaska drivers will have to pay a $500 fine and face a license suspension of 90 days to one year.

If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance

If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, collecting compensation for your medical bills and other losses can be challenging. Fortunately, your policy may include uninsured motorist coverage, which covers your damage if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have a policy.

Unfortunately, if you declined this option when purchasing the policy or the damages exceed the limits, you may have to file a lawsuit against the other party. This can be a long, expensive process with uncertain results, so it’s best to invest in uninsured motorist coverage when applying for a policy.

If you want to get car insurance, turn to Dunlap Agency in Fairbanks, AK. These agents help drivers across the state get the auto coverage they need so that they’re protected in a variety of situations. They also offer comprehensive plans from the industry’s leading carriers, like Progressive® and Alaska National Insurance Company®. Get more information about their products online, or call (907) 456-5202 to request a free quote.