Don’t Get Stuck with the Bill: Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Insurance

You follow the rules. You carry the required car insurance. You drive defensively. But what happens if someone hits you—and they don’t have insurance? Or worse, they flee the scene? Unfortunately, many drivers find themselves paying out of pocket for damages caused by someone else’s negligence. That’s where Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage come in.
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These often-overlooked policy options can be the difference between full recovery and financial hardship. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself before an accident happens.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Insurance?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage protects you if you're involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance at all. This type of insurance can cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (in some states or with an add-on)

Example:
You're rear-ended at a stoplight. The driver at fault has no insurance. UM coverage helps you pay your medical bills and recover lost income.


What Is Underinsured Motorist Insurance?
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage kicks in when the other driver has insurance—but not enough to cover all your damages. It helps bridge the gap between what their policy pays and what you actually need to recover.

Example:
You're hit by a driver carrying only the minimum liability coverage. Your medical bills exceed their coverage limits. UIM helps cover the remaining costs.


Why This Coverage Is So Important
According to the Insurance Research Council, around 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. are uninsured. In some states, that number is even higher. Add to that the rising costs of medical care and vehicle repairs, and you have a perfect storm of risk.

Without UM/UIM coverage, you may end up:

• Paying out of pocket for injuries or damage
• Suing the other driver (which often leads nowhere if they’re financially insolvent)
• Delaying necessary medical care due to cost

Key Benefits of UM/UIM Coverage

1. Covers Hit-and-Run Accidents
   If the at-fault driver flees the scene and can’t be identified, UM coverage often applies.
   
   
2. Protects You and Your Passengers
   Medical costs for everyone in your vehicle may be covered.
   
   
3. Fills the Gaps in the Other Driver’s Coverage
   Helps ensure your expenses are fully covered when the at-fault party’s limits fall short.
   
   
4. Often Affordable
   Adding UM/UIM coverage typically raises your premium only slightly, but provides major financial protection.
   
   
5. Peace of Mind
   You won’t have to worry about others' coverage—or lack thereof—every time you hit the road.

How Much Coverage Should You Have?

• Most experts recommend matching your UM/UIM limits to your bodily injury liability limits.
• For example, if you carry $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident in liability coverage, consider the same for UM/UIM.

Check with your insurance provider about:

• Whether both bodily injury and property damage UM/UIM coverage are available in your state
• If stacking coverage is permitted (stacking allows you to combine coverage from multiple vehicles for higher limits)

Final Thoughts
You can’t control who’s on the road—but you can control how well you're protected. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage ensures you're not left paying for someone else's mistakes.

Take action today:

• Review your auto policy.
• Check if UM/UIM coverage is included and whether your limits are adequate.
• Ask your insurance agent how to enhance your protection affordably.

Because the only thing worse than an accident is paying for one you didn’t cause.

At Best Insurance Group, LLC, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (970) 674-5000. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE. 

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.