What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM)?

Florida has the fifth highest rate of uninsured drivers in the United States with nearly 25% of drivers uninsured. This can be a major problem because if an uninsured driver causes an accident there is no coverage available. Florida’s mandatory minimum requirements ensure that each driver carries $10,000 minimum in Personal Injury Protection. This will be your first line of defense in combating medical bills. Unfortunately, PIP coverage will only insure that 80% of your medical bills are paid.

One of the best ways to cover yourself from an accident with an uninsured motorist is through the elective coverage is known as Uninsured Motorist Coverage or UM.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

This form of coverage allows the victim of an accident to receive compensation if they are injured by an uninsured driver or vehicle. Uninsured Motorist Coverage is simply a contractual agreement between the insurance company and insured driver to protect the driver from uninsured motorists. Compensation can go towards injuries, pain, and suffering. Uninsured Motorist compensation is not automatic and the driver must be able to prove that the accident was caused by negligent driving at the hands of the uninsured motorist.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured Motorist coverage is set up similarly to Bodily Injury coverage where the insurance company will cover a certain amount per person and a certain amount per accident. They are usually displayed like this:

• $10,000/$20,000
• $25,000/$50,000
• $100,000/$300,000
• $300,000/$500,000

If you do not carry Uninsured Motorist coverage, it is possible to be covered by the host driver or vehicle if either has an Uninsured Motorist policy. You can also qualify under a resident relative. Another benefit of Uninsured Motorist coverage is that you can use it if you are the victim of an accident in which the at-fault driver is underinsured. If their coverage does not adequately compensate you for damages you can qualify for Uninsured Motorist coverage.

Would you like to learn more about Uninsured Motorist Coverage? Call Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys at 800-257-1822: Because of the number of uninsured motorists on the road it is important to look into Uninsured Motorist Coverage. Dan Newlin Injury attorneys offer free advice and consultation on your current insurance policies. Don’t wait until you are the victim of an accident. Take the proper steps to make sure you have all angles covered so you aren’t paying out of pocket!