Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims Explained

If the driver who hit you has no insurance, or their policy is too small to cover your injuries, your own car insurance may pay through uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Many people have this coverage without realizing it.

How the coverage works

Uninsured motorist (UM) pays when the at-fault driver has no liability insurance. It often also covers hit-and-run crashes.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) pays the difference when the at-fault driver's limits are too low to cover your losses, up to your own UIM limits.

Some states require drivers to carry UM or UIM coverage; in others it is optional and can be declined in writing. Check the declarations page of your policy.

What it can cover

Depending on your policy and state: medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering for you and passengers. Separate coverage, such as collision or uninsured motorist property damage, may pay for the car.

Steps after the crash

Call the police, especially for a hit-and-run. Many policies require a police report.
Get medical care.
Notify your own insurer promptly; policies have notice deadlines.
For an underinsured driver, do not settle with their insurer without telling your own insurer first. Settling without your insurer's consent can jeopardize a UIM claim in some states.

Your insurer becomes the other side

In a UM or UIM claim, your own insurance company steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver. It will evaluate your injuries the same way any insurer does, and may dispute fault or the value of the claim. Many policies send disagreements to arbitration.

Stacking and other options

Some states allow "stacking" UM/UIM limits from more than one vehicle or policy. A household member's policy may also apply. A lawyer can check every policy that might pay.

Find a personal injury lawyer near you.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Insurance rules vary by state and policy.