Harrisburg Jury Awards $1.5M to Teen Hit by Underinsured Driver: What’s Next?

Imagine the life of a teenager, full of promise and potential, suddenly derailed by a car accident. While no amount of money can truly compensate for physical and emotional trauma, a Harrisburg jury recently awarded $1.5 million to a local teen injured by an underinsured driver. This significant verdict raises important questions: What does this mean for the victim and their family? What are the legal implications of underinsured motorist claims in Pennsylvania? And what steps should you take if you find yourself in a similar situation?

Understanding Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law requires drivers to carry auto insurance, but it doesn’t mandate a specific amount of coverage. This can leave individuals vulnerable if they’re hit by a driver whose insurance policy isn’t sufficient to cover the full extent of their damages. That’s where underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage comes in.

UIM coverage is an optional add-on to your own auto insurance policy that protects you and your family if you’re injured by an underinsured driver. In essence, your insurance company steps in to cover the difference between the at-fault driver’s policy limits and your actual damages, up to the limits of your UIM coverage.

Key Considerations for UIM Coverage:

Stacking: Pennsylvania allows “stacking” of UIM coverage in certain situations. Stacking means you can combine the UIM coverage from multiple vehicles in your household to increase the total amount of coverage available.
Policy Limits: The amount of UIM coverage you purchase is a critical decision. While it might seem tempting to save money by opting for lower limits, remember that medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can quickly exceed those limits in a serious accident.
“Made Whole” Doctrine: Pennsylvania follows the “made whole” doctrine, which generally means you must be fully compensated for your losses before your insurance company can seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance.

The Harrisburg Case: A Closer Look

While specific details of the Harrisburg case are limited, the $1.5 million verdict suggests the teen suffered significant injuries and damages. Here’s what we can infer:

Serious Injuries: A verdict of this size likely indicates the teen sustained serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, potentially including surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Long-Term Impact: The injuries may have a long-term impact on the teen’s ability to work, attend school, and participate in activities they once enjoyed.
Pain and Suffering: A significant portion of the award likely compensates the teen for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

What’s Next for the Teen and Their Family?

Receiving a large jury award is just one step in the process. Here’s what the teen and their family can expect:

Appeals: The insurance company has the right to appeal the verdict. This could delay the payment of the award and potentially lead to further legal proceedings.
Liens and Subrogation: The family needs to address any outstanding medical liens (claims by healthcare providers for unpaid bills) and subrogation claims (claims by insurance companies to recover payments they’ve made).
Financial Planning: Managing a large sum of money requires careful financial planning. The family should consult with a financial advisor to develop a plan for investing and protecting the funds.
Continued Medical Care: The teen may require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. The award can help ensure they have access to the best possible treatment.

What to Do If You’re Hit by an Underinsured Driver

If you’re involved in an accident with an underinsured driver in Pennsylvania, here are the steps you should take:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries you sustained.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to the police and your insurance company.
Gather Information: Collect as much information as possible about the accident, including the other driver’s insurance information, witness statements, and photos of the scene.
Consult with an Attorney: Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in handling underinsured motorist claims. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your recovery.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating an underinsured motorist claim can be complex and challenging. Insurance companies are often reluctant to pay the full value of a claim, and they may use various tactics to minimize their payout. An experienced personal injury attorney can level the playing field and advocate for your best interests.

An attorney can:

Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
File a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights.
Present your case to a jury if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

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Conclusion

The Harrisburg jury’s $1.5 million award highlights the importance of underinsured motorist coverage and the potential consequences of being injured by a driver with inadequate insurance. If you’ve been involved in a car accident with an underinsured driver, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take the necessary steps to protect your future. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.