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Page Overview
- What is an uninsured motorist policy?
- What does an uninsured motorist policy cover?
- What are the downsides to having an uninsured motorist policy?
- How much does an uninsured motorist policy cost?
- How do I get an uninsured motorist policy?
- What is the difference between an uninsured motorist policy and an underinsured motorist policy?
- Do I need an uninsured motorist policy?
- What happens if I am in an accident with an uninsured motorist?
- How will my insurance company handle my medical expenses?
- Should I contact a lawyer about my accident with an uninsured motorist?
What Is an Uninsured Motorist Policy?
An uninsured motorist policy is coverage that pays for damages caused by drivers who do not have auto insurance.
This type of policy can protect you and your family if you are hit by an uninsured driver. Your insurance company will likely cover any medical bills or other expenses related to the accident. Call your insurance provider to see if uninsured motorist coverage is available, and get a price check. Visit our Insurance Center for more information.
What Does an Uninsured Motorist Policy Cover?
There are several benefits to having an uninsured motorist policy. Typically, it covers most expenses. That includes medical bills, repair costs, and lost wages when you sustain injuries or damage to your vehicle in an accident with an uninsured driver.
Many car insurance policies provide coverage for personal property damage and any liability claims due to the accident. Check with your insurance company and ask questions to see if an uninsured motorist policy is right for you.
What are the Downsides?
Having this type of insurance policy can be a great way to protect yourself and your family in case of an accident. However, there are some drawbacks. Uninsured motorist policies will cost more than other types of auto insurance coverage. Therefore, you may not be able to afford it if you have a limited budget. With multiple drivers in your household, there could be additional costs to cover each of them too.
Despite these downsides, carrying an uninsured motorist policy can provide you with peace of mind and protection for you and your family. Remember you may be held responsible for any damages or injuries caused in an accident with an uninsured driver without this type of coverage. Read your policy thoroughly before signing so you understand all of the associated terms and conditions.
Cost to Add Coverage to Your Policy?
Shop around for car insurance rates as it can vary greatly depending on the company and type of coverage you need. The insurance companies will take various factors into account such as your age, driving record, and the type of vehicle you drive. All of these can have an impact on your rate. Most of the cost of an uninsured motorist policy will depend on your individual situation and what kind of vehicle you drive.
To learn how to save on your car insurance, please read our article about Getting a Lower Insurance Rate in 2023.
How Do I Get an Uninsured Motorist Policy?
Contact your insurance company if you are interested in getting an uninsured motorist policy. Your insurance provider can provide a quote for this coverage and answer any questions you may have.
If you want a new insurance company, call several providers to check whether your current rate is competitive.
What Is The Difference Between an Uninsured Motorist Policy And an Underinsured Motorist Policy?
In comparing these two policies, you’ll start to see there are two main differences: the extent of coverage and the amount of liability. An uninsured motorist policy will cover any damages or injuries caused by an uninsured driver, while an under-insured motorist policy will only cover up to a certain amount.
For example, if you have an under-insured insurance policy and the other driver’s insurance is not enough to cover all the medical expenses or property damage, an under-insured motorist policy fills in the gaps. An uninsured motorist policy will protect you and your family in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver.
Do I Need An Uninsured Motorist Policy?
Whether you need an uninsured motorist policy depends on your individual situation and the laws in your state. Carry this type of coverage if you live in an area with a high rate of uninsured drivers. Otherwise, you’ll need to have a rainy-day fund to cover the cost of your vehicle damage after an accident with an uninsured driver.
What Happens if I am in an Accident with an Uninsured Motorist?
If you are in an accident with an uninsured motorist, the first thing you should do is call the police and get a police report. This will help protect your interests if the other driver does not carry insurance or they deny liability. Take photos of the damage after the accident, and exchange contact details and insurance information with the other driver.
When you are in an accident with an uninsured motorist and do not have this type of coverage, you will often be held responsible. You’ll have to pay for any damages or injuries caused by the other driver. Having this kind of policy will offer you a greater level of protection.
See Why Do Your Car Insurance Rates Increase After an Accident? for more details.
How Will My Insurance Company Handle My Medical Expenses?
When you sustain injuries in an accident, you need to obtain medical documentation for any injuries you sustained. Then contact your insurance company to report the accident. If you have an uninsured motorist policy, they will help cover any damages or injuries caused by the other driver. Additionally, you may be able to pursue legal action against the other driver if they are mostly responsible for the accident.
Should I Contact a Lawyer About My Accident With an Uninsured Motorist?
Yes, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced lawyer if you were in an accident with an uninsured motorist. A traffic attorney can help protect your rights, and offer advice on the legal process. That includes negotiating a settlement or pursuing legal action against the other driver.
An attorney will provide support and assistance throughout the process. They can help you get any necessary medical or financial assistance. You do not have to go through this process alone. Make sure to consult an attorney in the event of an accident with an uninsured motorist. Get assistance from an experienced traffic attorney who specializes in car accidents with uninsured motorists. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, help negotiate an insurance settlement, and provide information or resources.
For details about what to do when filing a claim, please read Dos & Don’ts When Filing an Insurance Claim.
Final Thoughts: Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Having an uninsured motorist policy can be a beneficial form of protection against uninsured drivers.
In the event you do have an accident with a driver who does not carry car insurance, be sure to take the necessary steps. That includes contacting the police to file a report, notifying your insurance company, and taking pictures of any damage. Remember to exchange contact information with the other driver. We highly recommend contacting a reputable traffic attorney to help you through the entire legal process.
