In all 50 states, drivers are required to carry auto insurance. Despite that, a 2023 study conducted by the Insurance Research Council found 15% of drivers on the nation’s roadways were uninsured; another 18% were underinsured.
That’s why uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage is so valuable. In essence, your auto insurance company stands in for the uninsured/underinsured at-fault driver to compensate you for the harm you’ve suffered. UM/UIM coverage can also supplement personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP kicks in immediately, no matter who was responsible for an accident, and helps pay medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and for essential services (e.g., childcare, yardwork). However, PIP isn’t available everywhere, and its policy limits might be too low to fully cover one’s injuries. At that point, UM/UIM takes the baton. Additionally, UM/UIM typically covers pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability — up to policy limits.
In case you’re wondering, filing a personal injury lawsuit against an at-fault driver who lacks insurance and
financial assets is basically a futile endeavor.
UM/UIM protection often extends to victims of hit-and-runs where the driver cannot be identified (details
vary from state to state); passengers in your vehicle at the time of an accident; instances when you
are injured as a pedestrian or bicyclist by an uninsured driver; and resident relatives (household family
members).
Be forewarned that if you file a UM/UIM claim, your own insurance company will still look to limit its payout.
If you are injured in an auto accident due to someone’s negligence, contact our firm. We’ll take care of all
the details and attain fair compensation for your injuries.
