Most states including Maryland require drivers to have cars insured before they take them on the road.
But traveling during the holidays boosts the chances of having a crash with one of those who don?t have insurance.
About 10 to 30 percent of drivers across the United States are uninsured or underinsured, according to AAA-Mid-Atlantic headquartered in Wilmington, Del.
“Getting involved in a crash with one of these types of drivers can cause serious financial problems for insured drivers,” said Donna Lee Williams, Director of Government and Industry Affairs, AAA Mid-Atlantic. “If the costs of the crash go above the policy limit, the insured driver becomes responsible for payment. The best way to protect yourself is to purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.”
Whether you?re in a crash with an insured or uninsured driver, it?s important to call the police to ensure a report, said Ed Kriston and Jeffrey Boone, approved automotive repair specialists of the Towson Office of AAA Mid-Atlantic. “That?s the most important thing to do to protect yourself.”
After you call the police, record the following:
» Driver?s name, address, telephone number and driver?s license number.
» The year, make, model, color and license plate number of the vehicle.
» Date, time and location of the crash.
» Names and contact information for any witnesses.
» Names of any responding authorities and police report number.
» Take a picture of the crash scene and vehicle damage.
Better still, prevent crashes with these other strategies provided by Boone and Kriston:
» Give driving your full attention. When children are in the car it?s easy to be distracted. Drivers should turn off cell phones, forego snacks, and face the road to minimize distractions.
» Use restraints. While safety belt use is at an all-time high and child safety seats have dramatically reduced child deaths, still up to 75 percent of child safety seats are improperly installed. And the 20 percent of drivers who don?t buckle up are at much higher risk of not properly buckling up their children.
For more information on this and other car safety issues, go to www.aaa.com