Why Uninsured Motorist Insurance Should Be Part of Your Auto Insurance Coverage

When you purchase a car, one of the things you need to consider is auto insurance coverage. You want to make sure you have enough coverage to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle in case of an accident. However, not everyone on the road has insurance, and if you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be left with a hefty bill. That's why it's essential to have uninsured motorist insurance (UMI) as part of your auto insurance coverage. This piece will discuss what UMI is, why you need it, and how it can protect you.

What is Uninsured Motorist Insurance?

Uninsured motorist insurance is auto insurance coverage that protects you and your passengers if you get into an accident with a driver who has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover the damages. This coverage covers medical expenses, lost earnings, and other losses that you could have recovered from the other driver's insurance if they had it. Certain states mandate uninsured motorist coverage for drivers, while in other states, it is an optional form of coverage. However, it's always a good idea to add it to your policy to protect yourself in case of an accident.

How Uninsured Motorist Insurance Can Protect You

Uninsured motorist insurance replaces the coverage that the other driver is unable to provide. If the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance at all, your UMI coverage will kick in and pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages up to the policy limit. If the at-fault driver doesn't have enough insurance to cover the full amount of damages, your UMI will cover the difference. This coverage can provide financial protection and save you from having to personally cover expenses from an accident resulting from a driver without insurance or insufficient insurance.

What Is the Appropriate Amount of Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage to Obtain?

UMI coverage limits vary by state and insurance carrier. You can choose to add UMI coverage limits that match your liability coverage limits, or you can go higher. Your decision will be based on your financial resources and comfort with taking risks. If you live in a state with a high percentage of uninsured drivers, you may want to consider higher UMI limits to protect yourself fully.

How to Add Uninsured Motorist Insurance to Your Auto Insurance Policy

If you're interested in adding UMI coverage to your auto insurance policy, contact your insurance carrier. They will be able to provide you with more information about the coverage, too, and the cost and how it works. Including UMI coverage is easy, and it provides reassurance, ensuring you're safeguarded in the event of an accident involving an uninsured driver.

Uninsured motorists are on the road, and you don't want to be left with a hefty bill if you're in an accident with one. Uninsured motorist insurance can protect you financially and give you the peace of mind you need when driving. Consider adding UMI coverage to your auto insurance policy to protect yourself and your passengers from uninsured drivers. 

Contact a local car insurance provider to learn more.

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