Hit by an Uninsured Driver, Then Stuck With the Bill

Recently, I was involved in a serious accident at an unprotected intersection when my vehicle was struck by an uninsured driver traveling at a high rate of speed. I approached the intersection cautiously, looked both directions, and in the moment it took to check again, I was hit. The damage to my pickup was extensive. Because the other driver was uninsured, I filed a claim under my own policy—as it is intended to be used.

I have maintained continuous auto insurance coverage since I began driving, with only one minor traffic citation and no at-fault accidents. Like many Montanans, I have paid my premiums faithfully with the expectation that my insurer would stand behind me when I needed it most.

When I brought my vehicle to a repair shop of my choosing—one known for high-quality work and skilled technicians, I was contacted by an adjuster from my insurance company. I was informed that the shop I selected was not one the insurer preferred to work with. However, I chose that facility specifically because of its strong reputation and my desire to have my vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition. This accident was not my fault, and my only expectation was that my vehicle would be properly repaired.

During the claims process, I was told that the insurance company was not required to pay for OEM parts. In my experience, aftermarket parts often do not meet the same standards in terms of fit, finish, or durability. Beyond that, I observed that the insurer attempted to dictate labor rates paid to the repair technicians—raising serious concerns about fairness and transparency. Ultimately, I was forced to pay approximately 20 percent of the repair costs out of pocket because my policy does not include a Right to Appraisal provision.

In the end, I was left feeling penalized for an accident that was not my fault. If insurers can collect premiums consistently but then decline to fully cover necessary repairs, it raises serious questions about the value and reliability of the coverage consumers are required to carry. To compound matters, my premiums were increased following the claim.

Montanans deserve better. If we are required to carry insurance, we should be able to rely on it to deliver fair outcomes—especially in situations beyond our control. A Right to Appraisal would help restore balance, accountability, and trust in the system.