You must clearly state the facts of what happened, why the defendant is legally responsible, and the specific harm or loss you suffered. Crucially, you must detail the compensation you are seeking, itemizing all costs and damages. Include full, correct names and addresses for everyone involved. Missing or vague information can cause delays or lead to your claim being rejected outright by the court.

Secure the scene, call the police, and get a report filed—this is crucial documentation. Exchange information as you normally would, but also note the other driver’s lack of insurance. Collect witness contact details and take photos of the damage, license plates, and the scene. Do not accept cash or promises to pay from the at-fault driver. Immediately notify your own insurance company about the accident and state that the other party is uninsured. This starts the claims process under your relevant coverage.

Immediately notify your insurance company. Most policies have strict deadlines for reporting a claim. Provide a basic, factual summary of what happened without admitting fault or speculating. Ask your agent for your specific policy number and the claims department’s direct contact information. Gather initial evidence, such as photos of the scene and the names of any witnesses. Prompt reporting is critical to protect your coverage and allows the insurer to begin their investigation while details are fresh.