Search

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage? 

Suppose you were in an accident but weren’t driving the car, and the driver didn’t have insurance. In such times, uninsured motorist coverage is the shield you need. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage? 
Do you need uninsured motorist coverage? Let's first understand your location, driving habits and budget. Read to know more.

Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional insurance policy to add to your auto insurance. Suppose you were in an accident but weren’t driving the car, and the driver didn’t have insurance. During these times, uninsured motorist coverage helps cover your medical expenses and the other damages to the vehicle caused during the accident. Here’s what you need to know.

Also, check Beem for personalized auto insurance quotes from the industry’s leading providers and get up to 40% off on your preferred coverage.

Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage? 

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including location, driving habits, budget, and whether or not you have hired a driver. So, if you commute with your vehicle but don’t drive, uninsured motorist coverage will benefit you. 

In Which States is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Required?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and their requirements for coverage vary from state to state. States like New York, North Carolina, Connecticut, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, and Illinois require drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage. In contrast, other states like California and Florida have different requirements. Others, like California and Florida, do not. Before you opt for coverage, examine your state’s laws and decide.

What Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover? 

This coverage usually covers expenses related to medical, lost wages, and property damage by the driver who doesn’t own the car and doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the losses inflicted by them on your vehicle.

Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover Hit-And-Run Accidents?

Yes. It also covers the hit-and-run cases where the driver hasn’t been identified as the person at fault. It will cover your medical bills and the bills related to vehicle repair.

Read Related Article: Car Insurance in Lansing, MI.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Vs. Collision Coverage 

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage typically helps pay for damage to your vehicle caused by an uninsured driver. On the other hand, collision coverage covers damages to your vehicle irrespective of who was at fault at the time of the accident. It doesn’t matter if it was a hit-and-run case or, whether you hit your car on a tree, or if your car overturns. 

Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage if I Have Health Insurance?

Health insurance will only cover medical expenses caused by accidents. Meanwhile, uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage will provide you with additional protection. It helps cover expenses that aren’t covered by regular health insurance, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and other minute details. It’s worth considering if your driver uses your vehicle all the time.

How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do I Need?

This depends on your state’s minimum requirement. You also need to consider your risk tolerance, health insurance coverage, and assets. Before you decide which policy to go with, check how much insurance you need to protect your vehicle and financial security in case of a severe accident.

Who Needs Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage will be useful if you have a driver who doesn’t have any insurance. It will protect you financially and will cover your damages. Knowing that you are protected will give you peace of mind whenever you are traveling.

How to Get UM/UIM Coverage? 

To get uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, you first need to contact your insurance company or agent. Put in a request to get uninsured motorist coverage.

Or ask them if they can add that to your existing auto insurance policy. Most insurance companies offer UM/UIM coverage as an optional add-on. You can select the coverage limit and everything else based on your needs and budget. 

Read Related Article: Car Insurance in Tallahassee.

Conclusion  

Uninsured motorist coverage will be a shield if you have hired a driver, as it provides many benefits against financial problems during both accidents. You have to understand its importance and how it will benefit you before deciding whether or not you want to get one. You never know when something tragic will happen. That’s when a UM/UIM will come in handy, as it will help you be prepared for all unpredictable circumstances lurking on your everyday journey. 

Was this helpful?

Did you like the post or would you like to give some feedback? Let us know your opinion by clicking one of the buttons below!

👍👎

Author

Picture of Aniket Kulkarni

Aniket Kulkarni

A seasoned Product Manager specializing in car insurance content, Aniket has a passion for simplifying complex insurance concepts. His strategic approach to content development reflects years of experience in the product development industry, coupled with a commitment to providing accurate, reliable information.

Editor

This page is purely informational. Beem does not provide financial, legal or accounting advice. This article has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide financial, legal or accounting advice and should not be relied on for the same. Please consult your own financial, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transactions.

Related Posts
Car Insurance In Phoenix
Car Insurance in Phoenix, AZ: How to Pick the Right One?
Car Insurance in Baton Rouge
Car Insurance in Baton Rouge, LA: How to Pick the Right One?
Can you Buy a Car with a Check
Can you Buy a Car With a Check?
Can I buy a car under my LLC?
Can I Buy a Car Under My LLC? Best Guide To Help You
Can You Buy Impounded Cars
Can You Buy Impounded Cars?
Often, impounded cars come at an attractive price because of the circumstances that surround them. They may have been confiscated for reasons including non-payment of fines, dumped by their owner, or seized for criminal activity. But there are challenges. Here's what you need to know.
Average Cost of Car Insurance In Michigan
Average Cost of Car Insurance In Michigan: Top Options For You
Features
Essentials

Get up to $1,000 for emergencies

Send money to anyone in the US

Ger personalized financial insights

Monitor and grow credit score

Save up to 40% on car insurance

Get up to $1,000 for loss of income

Insure up to $1 Million

Plans starting at $2.80/month

Compare and get best personal loan

Get up to 5% APY today

Learn more about Federal & State taxes

Quick estimate of your tax returns

1 month free trial on medical services

Get paid to play your favourite games

Start saving now from top brands!

Save big on auto insurance - compare quotes now!

Zip Code:
Zip Code: