No Insurance After an Accident? Here's What to Do When Nobody Will Pay
Sometimes there's no insurance on either side. Attorney Brad DeBry walks through the worst-case scenario and how to minimize your losses.
The Worst-Case Scenario
Brad DeBry calls it one of the hardest situations: "There's a crash. It wasn't their fault. But there was no insurance. They didn't have collision coverage and the defendant didn't have liability coverage. Their car was damaged, they can't drive it, and there's nobody to pay."
Scenario 1: Damage is your fault (or nobody's fault) and you don't have collision/comprehensive coverage.
Scenario 2: Someone else caused it but they're uninsured and you don't have collision or uninsured motorist coverage.
Both are terrible. But there are steps to minimize the damage.
Get Out of the Tow Yard Immediately
Every day costs $35-75. With no insurance, that's your money.
DeBry: "Contact the tow yard, find out the price. Explain there's no insurance, it's all coming out of your pocket, and see if they'll knock some off. Then get the car out."
If the car isn't drivable, rent a tow dolly or get help with a tow strap. Anything is cheaper than daily storage.
Fix It or Junk It — Run the Numbers
- Get repair estimates — tell shops there's no insurance for better pricing
- Find your car's value using Black Book, KBB, comparable listings
- Compare: If repairs cost more than value, don't fix it
- Check salvage value: What will a junkyard pay for it as-is?
DeBry's mindset: "Unless you have a strong emotional attachment, your goal needs to be the same as the insurance company's — get out by paying the smallest amount possible and recoup whatever value you can."
Go After the At-Fault Driver
If someone else caused it and they're uninsured, you can pursue them directly.
DeBry: "You always have the right to go after that person personally. Talk to them and try to work out a deal. If it doesn't work, file a lawsuit in regular court or small claims court."
Utah small claims court handles cases up to $11,000 — no lawyer required.
Also: adjust or cancel your insurance on that vehicle, and deal with any outstanding auto loan. Don't ignore the loan company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the other driver has no insurance?
If you have uninsured motorist property damage coverage, use it. If not, pursue the at-fault driver in small claims court (up to $11,000) or district court.
How do I minimize losses with no insurance?
Act fast: get car out of tow yard, get repair estimates, compare against value, decide to fix or sell for salvage. Every day of delay costs money.
Think You're Owed Money?
Free case review. We'll tell you exactly what your claim is worth.
Call 801-799-9999