Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is paid after an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn't have any insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) is paid after an accident involving an at-fault driver who has some type of insurance, but not enough to cover all costs. Skimping on auto coverage can be a risky decision, as it can leave you financially vulnerable in the event of an accident. According to Dave Ramsey, the most difficult part of buying car insurance is understanding what to purchase in the first place.
UIMBI coverage is especially beneficial if you are involved in an accident with an at-fault driver who has the minimum car insurance required and you suffer bodily injuries as a result of the accident. UIMPD coverage is not limited to car damage. Depending on the circumstances and your condition, it may also cover valuables inside the vehicle, such as a computer or cell phone, or outside the vehicle, such as a fence or mailbox. The distinction between uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is that uninsured motorist coverage safeguards you if you have an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn't have any insurance.
Underinsured motorist coverage, on the other hand, protects you if you have an accident with an at-fault driver who has some type of insurance, but not enough to pay for all costs associated with the accident. If you have an accident with an underinsured at-fault driver, you'll need to file an underinsured driver claim with your insurance company. Underinsured motorist coverage is relatively inexpensive and can be a huge financial benefit if you have an accident with an at-fault driver with inadequate insurance. It's a great way to transfer the financial risk of sharing the road with underinsured drivers from you to your insurance company.
And if your UIMBI limit is higher than the minimum liability limit of the at-fault driver, your insurance company will pay the gap between the underinsured driver's insurance payment and the full bill up to the limit of your policy. Some states require coverage for underinsured motorists, while more states require coverage for uninsured motorists. Underinsured motorist insurance (UIM) covers you when you have an accident caused by a driver whose insurance coverage is below the minimums required by the state. So, if you're looking for ways to protect yourself financially in case of an accident with an underinsured driver, consider investing in UIM coverage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can be a lifesaver in case of an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn't have enough insurance or any insurance at all.
It's important to understand what these types of coverages are and how they work so that you can make sure that you are adequately protected in case of an accident. Investing in UIM coverage can help protect your finances and give you peace of mind when sharing the road with underinsured drivers.
