What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage, and Do I Really Need It?
Your health insurance may cover your injuries, but it may not cover long term care or replace income you lose if you are unable to work.
Shanti
10/1/20261 min read
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage, and Do I Really Need It?
A car accident is stressful enough. It can be even worse if the driver who caused it has no insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damage. Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, also called UM/UIM, may help. It works like extra insurance and can cover some of your costs when the at fault driver’s insurance is not enough.
Does My Regular Auto Insurance Help?
Most auto insurance policies include collision coverage, which pays to repair your car after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Your policy may also include medical payments coverage or Personal Injury Protection, also called PIP, to help pay medical bills.
If you have an expensive car or need long term medical care, collision and medical payments coverage may not be enough. Your health insurance may cover your injuries, but it may not cover long term care or replace income you lose if you are unable to work.
What Does This Coverage Pay For?
UM/UIM coverage may pay for:
• Car repairs and replacement of personal property damaged inside your car
• A rental car, if needed
• Medical bills for you and your passengers
• Pain and suffering
• The loss in value of your car after an accident
The deductible for this coverage is $250. Your collision deductible will probably be higher.
Who Needs Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Anyone who drives may need this coverage. You cannot know whether the driver who hits you has insurance or enough insurance to cover your injuries and damage to your car.
This coverage may also help after a hit and run accident, when the other driver cannot be found to pay for the damage.
How Much Coverage Can I Get?
You can usually increase your UM/UIM coverage in $5,000 increments. As a general rule, consider getting enough property damage coverage to replace your car. Ask your insurance agent what amount of coverage is right for your situation.
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