Despite state law and regulation for all driver's to carry adequate liability insurance, there are still those drivers on the road with no insurance coverage at all. Due to this negligence on the part of irresponsible drivers, many states now also require the additional purchase of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

Uninsured drivers are ten times more likely to drink, then drive, and three times more likely to get a conviction for their negligent driving. Roughly 15% of drivers carry no insurance. So it is no surprise that one out of every ten drivers has been in an accident with a driver who is uninsured. So what must you do if this should happen to you, and how can you protect yourself in this event?

When the accident happens, you will not know if that other driver has insurance or not, so you must react normally. Take notes on the other car's model, make, registration number, and license. Also, note the driver's name and address- even though he might not give you all the right details.

Also note the damage to the other car and the accident scene. Remember to record road signs and markings, light and weather conditions and whether the other car had its lights on. The more detail you can record, the better. If you are fortunate enough to have an independent witness get their full contact details. And if you also happen to have a camera with you, take lots of pictures (try to get one with the other driver clearly in the picture). The police might have use for that one!

If you have a comprehensive auto insurance policy, your insurer will pay for your car to be repaired but you could lose your no claims discount. And then there's the issue of your deductible (that's the first part of the repair expense you have to pay for). You will pay that unless you have a policy that waives the deductible if you're hit by an uninsured motorist.

Drivers that have their cars insured may carry just the minimum legal limit and this may be less than what is necessary to cover any damages in an accident which is their responsibility. Unless you have underinsured motorist insurance, in incidents where the at-fault driver cannot cover the left over expenses out of pocket, these expenses could be left with you.

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.