Uninsured motorist insurance is a type of coverage that provides financial protection – a safety net – in case you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, helping to recover for your injuries and property damage that might otherwise be the responsibility of the at-fault party.

Here are some key facts about uninsured motorist insurance:

1. Coverage for Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers:

Uninsured motorist insurance typically covers you, your passengers, and your vehicle if you are in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or has insurance coverage that is insufficient to cover the damages (underinsured).

2. Mandatory or Optional:

The requirement for uninsured motorist coverage varies by state. Some states require it as part of your auto insurance policy, while in others, it may be optional.

3. Coverage Limits:

Like other types of insurance, uninsured motorist coverage has limits. These limits determine the maximum amount the insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim. You can often choose your coverage limits when purchasing the policy.

4. Hit-and-Run Accidents:

Uninsured motorist coverage can also protect you in cases of hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance.

5. Medical Expenses and Bodily Injury:

This type of insurance can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. It may also cover injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident.

6. Property Damage:

Some uninsured motorist policies also cover property damage to your vehicle caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

7. Filing a Claim:

To make a claim for uninsured motorist benefits, you typically need to report the accident to your insurance company right away and provide evidence of the other driver’s lack of insurance or insufficient coverage.

8. Legal Requirements:

Some states may have specific requirements and procedures for handling uninsured motorist claims, so it’s important to understand the rules in your state.