Rhode Island is one of the top states for uninsured motorists. It is estimated that 17 percent of motorists are uninsured in the state. These drivers are knowingly breaking the law because every driver is required to have motor vehicle insurance. Even with these laws in place many drivers will still commute without it.

So what happens if you are hit, or worse injured, in a car accident and the other person does not have insurance? Here is what Rhode Island drivers should know.

Rhode Island goes beyond a simple vehicle insurance requirement. The state requires that every driver also offered uninsured motorist coverage (UIM). Every policy holder is offered this insurance and can only turn it down in writing. UIM protects you if you are hit by a driver without insurance. On top of that this insurance can cover insured drivers who do not have enough to pay for your damages.

Rhode Island's crack down on uninsured motorists

A new system came into effect last February which will reduce the amount of people on the road without vehicle insurance. The state now keeps tabs on people who do not carry auto insurance. If they are driving without insurance they will receive a notice in the mail telling them that they are legally required to purchase a plan. If drivers do not comply then the DMV will revoke their registration and prevent them from getting a new license.

Between your insurance and the newly added prevention systems you should be fairly safe from uninsured drivers. Yet if you find yourself in an accident with someone without insurance you might have a hard time getting enough money for your damages. Insurance companies will typically do everything in their power to reduce the amount of payment that you will receive. An experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can help contest their offer. It is important to have enough to cover the damages or injury that you have endured.