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Every state requires drivers to carry some kind of auto insurance, with the minimum required amount determined by each individual state. However, there are many drivers out there who carry no insurance at all. Many states recognize this and require drivers to buy Uninsured Motorist Coverage as well.

Drivers without insurance policies are 10 times more apt to get in their automobiles to drive after indulging in alcoholic beverages. They are also 3 times more apt to be found guilty of driving negligently. Around 15% of all drivers do not have any insurance. Therefore, it is hardly amazing that 10% of motorists have found themselves in accidents with such uninsured drivers. What are the steps to take if you have this experience and how can you achieve some level of protection?

At the time of the accident you probably won't know that the other driver is uninsured so you'll need to respond in the normal way. Take notes of the other car's make, model, license and registration number. Also be sure to note the other driver's name and address (although he may not give his correct details).

Take notes about the scene of the accident, too, like where road signs were located, or what the lighting and weather were like. Write down what damage there was to the other car and whether that car had its lights on. More information is better than less. Get contact information from any witnesses present. If you have a camera handy, take pictures of the damage, and also try to get a picture of the other driver, since police might need it.

Comprehensive auto insurance will provide the protection of your insurer to pay for your car repair, minus the deductible. However, if your claim is as a result of damage caused by a uninsured or underinsured motorist, you might be able to have that repair deductible waived by your insurance company. Regardless of the scenario, however, you might lose your no claims discount.

Even drivers who have auto insurance sometimes only carry the minimum limits, which may not be enough to cover all of the damages in an accident for which they are responsible. If the at-fault driver cannot pay the out of pocket expenses for the damages that insurance doesn't cover, you will be left with the bill yourself unless you have Underinsured Motorist insurance.

The best advice is to purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with your auto policy and to be alert, drive defensively and wear a seatbelt.

Because of the many uninsured and underinsured drivers on the road, many states require drivers to buy Auto Insurance for protection from Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage.