Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage: The Protection You Didn’t Know You Needed

You follow the rules of the road, keep your car insured, and drive responsibly. But what happens if you're hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance—or doesn’t have enough? Unfortunately, it’s more common than you might think. That’s where Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) comes in—an often-overlooked but essential layer of protection for drivers.
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In this blog, we’ll break down what UM/UIM coverage is, what it protects you from, and why adding it to your auto policy could save you from significant financial and legal stress.

What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage is a type of auto insurance that protects you when you're involved in an accident caused by a driver who has little or no insurance. Here’s the breakdown:

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Kicks in if you're hit by a driver who has no insurance at all. This can include hit-and-run situations.
  
  
• Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover your damages fully.

Both coverages can help pay for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Ongoing rehabilitation or treatment
• In some cases, damage to your vehicle (depending on your policy and state)

Why Is This Coverage So Important?
According to the Insurance Research Council, 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. is uninsured—and in some states, that number is even higher. If you're in an accident with one of these drivers, you could be left paying for your medical bills or vehicle repairs out of pocket—even if the crash wasn’t your fault.

And even when a driver has insurance, their liability limits may not come close to covering the full cost of a serious accident. UIM coverage ensures you’re not stuck with the difference.

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What Does UM/UIM Coverage Include?
Coverage details can vary by state and insurance provider, but generally include:

Some states require this coverage by law, while others offer it as an optional add-on. Check with your insurance provider for details based on your location.


Real-Life Scenarios Where UM/UIM Saves the Day

• Scenario 1: You’re hit by a driver who flees the scene. They can’t be identified, and you’re left with a totaled car and hospital bills. UM coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Scenario 2: A driver with minimum liability insurance hits you, and their policy only covers $25,000 of your $75,000 in medical costs. UIM coverage can pay the remaining $50,000.
  
  
• Scenario 3: You’re walking or biking and hit by an uninsured driver. UM coverage may still apply, depending on your policy.

How Much Coverage Do You Need?
A good rule of thumb: match your UM/UIM limits to your liability limits. If you’re carrying $100,000 in bodily injury liability, consider matching that with $100,000 in UM/UIM. It’s usually very affordable, especially compared to the cost of a serious injury.
Your insurance agent can help you determine the appropriate limits based on your risk level, budget, and state requirements.

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Final Thoughts: A Small Addition with Big Protection
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage may not be flashy, but it can make a huge difference when it matters most. It protects you from the mistakes—and irresponsibility—of others, providing peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.

If you're unsure whether you have UM/UIM coverage or if your limits are enough, now is a great time to review your auto insurance policy. A quick conversation with your insurance agent could save you thousands down the road.

​At Harvest Insurance Group, we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get insurance that fits your needs. Get in touch with our company at (940) 441-7157 to learn more about our offerings. Today, by CLICKING HERE, you may get a free estimate.

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.​