Uninsured motorist laws in the state of Arizona is meant to protect citizens impacted by accidents with uninsured or under-insured individuals. Approximately one quarter of Arizona drivers do not carry automobile liability coverage. You should know your rights in the event you are impacted by an accident with one of these individuals.
Your Right to Purchase Coverage
Arizona law affords you the right to purchase or waive uninsured motorist coverage when purchasing automobile liability coverage. If you purchase such insurance coverage, you are protecting yourself in the event of an accident with an uninsured motorist. Denying this coverage could leave you or your passengers in a bad situation. You may be responsible for paying for medical bills, and you may take a loss for any damage done to your vehicle in such an accident. Because the cost for such coverage is generally not that expensive, it is wise to carry it whether or not your vehicle is under lien. If you cannot afford extensive coverage, you can carry a minimal amount.
Carrying an adequate amount of uninsured or under-insured motorist coverage is the best way to protect yourself in the event of an accident. This can help you recover damages to your vehicle, injuries resulting from the accident, lost wages and other damages.
What If You Do Not Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
If you do not carry uninsured motorist coverage, you are leaving yourself open to taking a loss in the event of an accident, and the potential for being sued by any passengers in your vehicle who may be injured in such an accident. Your personal assets may be attached if you are held liable in a lawsuit for damages to passengers of your vehicle. For example, if your friend is injured and must take time off of work because he was a passenger in your vehicle and he sues you, your property may be attached to fulfill any award the court grants him. Carrying uninsured motorist coverage is the best way to protect your property.
Getting Legal Help
If you are in need of answers to questions about uninsured motorist laws within the state of Arizona, an attorney is in an excellent position to assist you. An attorney can answer your legal question, advise you of your rights and responsibilities and handle any claim on your behalf. The law can be complicated and if your insurance company isn't abiding by the law, an attorney can help you enforce the law.
