Why You Should Have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Statistics show 25% of crashes that happen in Florida, are hit-and-runs, where drivers decide running from the scene would be better than calling 911.

Victims of hit-and-run crashes will ideally have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage, also simply known as UM coverage. In the context of a hit-and-run accident, this coverage can pay for things like medical expenses, lost wages, damage to property, pain and suffering, and other damages not already covered by the driver’s no-fault insurance policy.

What exactly is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages financially protect you from irresponsible drivers. According to insurance giant, Allstate’s Quick Facts, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage:

• Is used when the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough (or any) liability coverage.
• Can save you from having to pay out of pocket for a car accident you didn’t cause.
• Usually costs more to add to your policy in states with more uninsured drivers. 

What is the difference between the two?

“Uninsured motorist insurance protects you if you’re in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t carry liability insurance.

Underinsured motorist coverage steps in when you’re in an accident with an at-fault driver whose liability limits are too low to cover the medical expenses of any injured people. The at-fault driver’s insurance will typically pay for all damages up to his or her auto insurance policy limits, then your underinsured motorist coverage may cover the excess amount up to the limits you select.”

Drivers in Florida are not required to have Uninsured Motorist Coverage, but given the statistics around hit-and-run crashes, we recommend motorists opt in, in order to recover the maximum recovery if they are involved in an accident.

Further, for those individuals whose jobs keep them on the roads – from food delivery drivers to truckers – now is the time to contact legal professionals to ensure you have the right policies in place that will compensate you for damages that may be incurred in a hit-and-run accident.