Understanding UM/UIM Car Coverage: Why You Should Have It

Author: Auger Law | September 14th, 2023

While each state sets a minimum motor vehicle policy amount, those amounts are wildly insufficient in the event of a serious accident.  

Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage protects you and your family and provides much-needed financial assistance in the event of an accident involving an Uninsured or Underinsured driver. 

What is UM/UIM Car Insurance Coverage? 

UM/UIM car coverage is an additional protection option you can add to your auto insurance policy. It is designed to step in when the at-fault driver of an accident doesn’t have any insurance coverage on their vehicle (uninsured) or does not have enough insurance coverage (underinsured) to fully compensate you for the damages that you have suffered. 

Why You Should Have UM/UIM Car Coverage 

• Protection Against Uninsured Drivers (UM Coverage): Despite laws requiring auto insurance, some drivers choose to hit the road without coverage. If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be left with hefty medical, no compensation for your injuries and no reimbursement for your vehicle repair costs. This is where UM (uninsured) car coverage ensures that you have a safety net to cover these expenses and protect you and your family.  

• Safeguard Against Underinsured Drivers (UIM Coverage): Even if the at-fault driver has insurance, their policy limits may not be enough to cover the full extent of your damages. UIM coverage protects you and your family when the at-fault driver has less coverage on their car than you have on yours.  The UIM coverage kicks in when your injury claim and medical bills exceed the other driver’s coverage. In such cases, UIM coverage can bridge the gap and protect you up to the amount of the UIM coverage on your policy.   

• Affordability: UM/UIM car coverage is generally affordable and can be added to your existing auto insurance policy without a significant increase in premiums.  Ask your insurance agent for quotes for increasing your coverage to $50,000, $100,000, $250,000 or more.  Considering the potential financial risks of being in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, the coverage is well worth the investment. 

• Compliance with State Laws: Some states may require drivers to have UM/UIM car coverage as part of their auto insurance policy, however the required amount is usually insufficient.  Even if it’s not mandatory in your state, we recommend increasing the coverage to protect you and your family.   

Having UM/UIM car coverage is a smart decision, but having legal representation in case of an accident is equally important. Call Auger and Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. Let us be your advocate and ensure you get the justice and compensation you are entitled to. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone – we’re here for you every step of the way.