As a responsible driver, it's important to protect yourself and your loved ones on the road. One way to do this is by purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). But what is UM/UIM, and how does it work? In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about this important type of car insurance.

What is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

UM/UIM is a type of car insurance that protects you in the event that you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient insurance to cover the damages they have caused. This can include situations where the other driver is completely uninsured, or where their insurance coverage is not enough to fully compensate you for your losses.

How Does UM/UIM Work?

If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your UM/UIM coverage will kick in to help cover the costs of the damages. This can include medical expenses, damage to your vehicle, and any other losses you may have incurred as a result of the accident.

To file a claim under your UM/UIM coverage, you will need to contact your insurance provider and provide them with the necessary information about the accident. This may include details about the other driver, any witness statements, and any documentation of the damages. Your insurance provider will then assess your claim and determine the appropriate amount of compensation.

How Much UM/UIM Coverage Do I Need?

The amount of UM/UIM coverage you need will depend on a variety of factors, including the value of your vehicle and the amount of coverage you already have under your regular car insurance policy. It's a good idea to speak with your insurance agent to determine the right amount of coverage for your needs.

Is UM/UIM Required by Law?

UM/UIM coverage is not required by law in Georgia. However, we highly recommend it as an additional layer of protection for you and your loved ones on the road. In Georgia, you are required to reject UM/UIM coverage in writing if you do not want it.

How Much Does UM/UIM Coverage Cost?

The cost of UM/UIM coverage will vary depending on your insurance provider and the specifics of your policy. In general, UM/UIM coverage is typically more affordable than other types of car insurance, such as collision or comprehensive coverage. However, the exact cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the value of your vehicle and your driving history.

Is UM/UIM Worth the Cost?

UM/UIM coverage can provide peace of mind on the road, knowing that you and your loved ones are protected in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. While it's not required by law in every state, it's still a good idea to consider adding this coverage to your car insurance policy.

In addition to protecting you and your loved ones, UM/UIM coverage can also help to protect your financial well-being. If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you could be left paying for the damages out of pocket if you don't have UM/UIM coverage. The costs of medical expenses, damage to your vehicle, and other losses can quickly add up, and UM/UIM coverage can help to alleviate some of that financial burden.

Overall, the cost of UM/UIM coverage is likely to be a small price to pay for the peace of mind and financial protection it provides. It's a good idea to speak with your insurance agent to determine the right amount of coverage for your needs and budget.

In Summary

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) is a type of car insurance that protects you in the event of an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient insurance to cover the damages they have caused. UM/UIM coverage can help to cover medical expenses, damage to your vehicle, and other losses you may have incurred as a result of the accident. While UM/UIM coverage is not required by law in every state, it is a good idea to consider adding it to your car insurance policy as an additional layer of protection. The cost of UM/UIM coverage will vary depending on your insurance provider and the specifics of your policy, but it is generally more affordable than other types of car insurance.