What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) is a type of auto insurance coverage that protects you if you’re involved in a car accident with a driver who does not have liability insurance or if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident. It is designed to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you would typically receive from the at-fault driver’s insurance company if they had one.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage is typically split into two categories: Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury coverage (UMBI) and Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD).

UMBI covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages for you and any passengers in your vehicle if an uninsured driver hits you. It can also cover you if you’re hit as a pedestrian.

UMPD pays for damage to your vehicle if an uninsured driver hits it. However, this type of coverage is only available in some states. In some states, Collision coverage may help pay for your vehicle repairs if an uninsured driver hits it.

It’s important to note that the specifics of what is covered can vary depending on the state and the individual insurance policy. Some states require drivers to have Uninsured Motorist Coverage, while others do not. Even in states where it’s not required, it’s often recommended as a way to protect yourself from significant financial risk if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.

In summary, Uninsured Motorist Coverage is a type of auto insurance that protects if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient insurance coverage. It can cover both bodily injury and property damage, depending on the specifics of the policy.