Being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver can leave you overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. You’re facing medical bills, lost income, and vehicle damage-only to learn the at-fault driver has no meaningful insurance coverage. At Holder Susan Slusher, LLC, we help accident victims in Columbia, Missouri, recover the compensation they deserve through uninsured motorist claims.
Our attorneys have decades of combined experience representing clients in complex personal injury cases at both the state and federal levels. Founding partners Michael S. Holder, Bogdan Susan, and Christopher A. Slusher have deep roots in mid-Missouri and a strong track record of results for injured clients. Whether it’s a hit-and-run or a low-coverage driver, we’re here to protect your rights.
The Growing Risk of Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers
The Insurance Research Council estimates that roughly one in seven drivers on U.S. roads do not carry auto insurance. Even more are underinsured, carrying only the minimum liability coverage required by law. In Missouri, where the minimums often fall short of covering serious injury or property loss, this is a serious problem.
If you’re injured due to the negligence of one of these drivers-or if you’re involved in a hit-and-run-you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, and more. The unfortunate truth, however, is that your chances of recovering those damages directly from the at-fault driver are slim to none.
Turning to Your Own Insurance Coverage
In most of these situations, victims must file a claim through their own insurance policy under uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. It’s the safety net meant to support you when the responsible party falls short.
The problem? Insurance companies frequently act in bad faith. They may offer settlements far below what your claim is worth-or deny your claim altogether. You’ve paid your premiums expecting support in times of crisis, but when you need help most, your insurance provider may stand in the way.
Let Us Help You Deal with Bad Faith Insurance Tactics
At Holder Susan Slusher, LLC, we know how frustrating it is when an insurance company refuses to fulfill its obligations. Unfortunately, bad faith practices are all too common-not just in auto claims but across homeowners, health, disability, and life insurance policies.
Our legal team is experienced in holding insurers accountable. We won’t let them delay, deflect, or deny your legitimate claim. We will pursue every avenue to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you’re entitled to under your policy.
What an Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
When you work with our firm, we take the burden off your shoulders. We will:
- Review your insurance policy and identify applicable UM/UIM coverage
- Handle all correspondence and negotiations with the insurance company
- Collect and present the evidence needed to support your claim
- Push back against lowball offers or outright denials
- Guide you through potential litigation if necessary
We are committed to protecting your rights and financial future and are not afraid to take on powerful insurance companies.
Uninsured vs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Missouri
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage serve different purposes depending on the at-fault driver’s insurance:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Applies when an at-fault driver has no liability insurance. Missouri requires most auto insurance policies to include at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $50,000 per accident. This coverage does not pay for vehicle damage.
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: Applies when the responsible driver has insurance, but their coverage is not enough to compensate you for your losses. Missouri does not require this coverage, and available benefits vary by policy.
An attorney can review your policy, explain the coverage available, and help determine your options for pursuing compensation.
What to Do After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
Taking the right steps after a crash can help protect your health and strengthen a potential insurance claim.
- Seek Medical Care: Have your injuries evaluated promptly and follow recommended treatment.
- Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement and request a copy of the police report.
- Gather Evidence: Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Collect witness contact information when possible.
- Notify Your Insurer: Report the collision and ask about filing an uninsured motorist claim.
- Document Your Losses: Keep medical bills, repair estimates, and records of missed work.
Missouri also requires certain accidents involving uninsured drivers to be reported to the Department of Revenue within 30 days, including those involving injuries or property damage exceeding $500.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uninsured Motorist Claims
Why Choose Holder Susan Slusher, LLC as Your Uninsured Motorist Accident Attorney?
The attorneys at Holder Susan Slusher, LLC bring decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of Missouri law to uninsured motorist accident cases.
Michael S. Holder has been practicing injury law in mid-Missouri since 1983 and focuses on achieving meaningful outcomes for clients while promoting safer roads and communities. He is licensed in both state and federal courts and has successfully handled cases where clients were initially told they had no claim. Bogdan Susan offers a strong legal foundation rooted in advocacy and constitutional rights, contributing strategic insight into complex liability and negligence cases. Christopher A. Slusher has extensive trial experience in high-stakes civil litigation, including wrongful death and personal injury, with millions recovered for clients.
Their combined backgrounds provide injured motorists with knowledgeable, aggressive representation when dealing with uninsured drivers and uncooperative insurers.
Your Rights After an Uninsured Motorist Crash in Columbia, MO
Navigating the aftermath of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver is stressful enough; dealing with insurance shouldn’t add to the burden. Whether you’re facing denied claims, delayed responses, or low settlement offers, you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Holder Susan Slusher, LLC, we’re here to ensure your rights are protected and your case is taken seriously. Contact us today at 573-499-1700 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and fight for the full compensation you deserve.