When most people think about auto insurance, they assume it only applies when they’re driving their own car. However, one of the most valuable (and often misunderstood) coverages on a personal auto policy is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist Coverage is designed to protect you if you’re injured by a driver who either:
- Does not carry auto insurance, or
- Does not carry enough insurance to fully cover your injuries
In California, despite insurance requirements, many drivers remain uninsured or underinsured. That means your protection matters more than you may realize.
Did you know?
Driving without insurance is illegal, but 15.4% of motorists (or about one in seven drivers), were uninsured in 2023. (source)
How much does it add to your coverage?
Coverage for uninsured motorist will vary and depend on your carrier, but is about 5% to your total premium. A small price for big protection!
Protection That Follows You
With a quality carrier, Uninsured Motorist Coverage often extends beyond your own vehicle. Depending on your policy, it may provide protection if you are:
- Walking as a pedestrian
- Riding a bicycle
- Traveling as a passenger in someone else’s vehicle
- Involved in a hit-and-run accident
In many cases, this coverage follows you, not just your car!
Why This Matters
Medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term recovery costs can add up quickly after an accident. Without adequate protection, you could be left paying out of pocket if the at-fault driver doesn’t have sufficient coverage.
Unfortunately, many policyholders are unaware of how broad this protection can be — or whether their current limits are adequate for their needs.
Have You Reviewed Your Coverage Recently?
Auto insurance isn’t just about meeting minimum requirements. It’s about protecting your financial stability and your family’s future.
If you’re unsure how your Uninsured Motorist Coverage works, or whether your limits are appropriate, it may be time for a quick review.
Understanding your options today can help prevent unexpected gaps tomorrow.
Who is responsible for paying for the loss in this scenario?
Uh oh! You just got rear-ended by a teenager driving their mom’s car and experienced a total loss to your vehicle. Insurance determined you are not at fault; however, the teen AND their mom were uninsured. You have medical bills from whiplash, your car is completely undriveable, and you still have to go to work the next day. 🙁
Insurance is here to help in these unlikely catastrophes!
If you did not have uninsured motorist coverage, you would be fiscally responsible for your own medical bills, the replacement of your vehicle, and paying for a rental vehicle to get to your job, even though it WASN’T your fault. Good thing you had adequate coverage, because insurance covers your losses from scenarios just like this!