Uninsured - At Fault - Liability Concerns

[bp360]

What is the name of your state? Rhode Island
Accident occured in Florida

I was the operator of an uninsured motorcycle that was involved in an accident. I had a passenger that broken her hand and required extensive surgury with bills totalling over $20k. She recently hired a lawyer to assist on filing a claim against her automobile insurance as she has coverage for uninsured motorist. Her lawyer feels that they will have no problem collecting thru her company - Good new for her but where do I stand ?

We are both from Rhode Island and have Rhode Island operator licenses- yes I am valid for motorcycles. the accident occured in Florida and was my fault. I was driving on a poorly lit road that turned 90 degrees sharply and I had no time to react and ended up dumping the bike. I was not seriously injured but did get checked out at hospital. I was NOT charged with anything by the local police - yes they were at the scene and an accident report was filed by them. They mentioned that they have many similar accidents at this location.

Here's my question - I own a small yet growing business (sole propritor, not inc or LLC) can i protect my business prior to her insurance company getting a judgement against me - if so how ?

Also - what can I expect to happen as a result of her initiating this claim against her auto insurance. Her lawyer is sending me a letter to ask if I had insurance or not. At this time I have received nothing - the accident happened 5 months ago.

Thanks in advance !!!!!
bp

[ecmst12]

Her insurance company will probably come after you to be reimbursed for anything they pay out. I don't know if your business is a vulnerable asset - you should probably check with an accountant or lawyer about that. But your personal assets are certainly vulnerable, if a judgement is awarded.

[bp360]

Thanks for the speedy reply. I real have no assets worth much other than the bike (17k or so) I own a 15 yr old car - no house) Can they attach my bank accounts _ I have 2 checking accounts - one for business and one personal.

Can they have my RI drivers license suspended even tho the accident happened in Florida

Thanks again

[seniorjudge]

Some states have laws that will revoke your license if you have an unpaid judgment over a car wreck.

Ask the folks in the Providence Plantation who issue licenses.

[ecmst12]

If you can work out a payment plan with them when they first contact you, rather then making them sue you over it, you won't have to worry about your assets being seized.