Although having auto insurance is required in almost every state, that doesn’t mean all drivers on the road are adequately insured. In fact, according to the Insurance Research Council, around one in eight motorists do not carry auto insurance. That’s why looking into uninsured motorist coverage is an essential step in properly protecting yourself in the case of an accident. In this blog, we will break down what uninsured motorist coverage is and why it’s important.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Before we can discuss why you need it, it’s important to understand what it is.
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you in the event of an accident with a driver who has no auto insurance. Similarly, underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for damages and injuries.
Both of these coverages are not mandatory in every state, but are highly recommended for all drivers regardless of being required or not. Also, if you’re a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you can file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage policy.
What Does it Cover?
Uninsured motorist coverage is in place to cover your injuries, your passengers’ injuries, and damage to your vehicle if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have adequate insurance.
Depending on your state, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage may be separate, combined, or consist of up to four coverages that divide between bodily injury and property damage. Our team at COBIA Insurance can help determine how your state stacks these insurance options to adequately protect you.
States That Require Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Currently, 20 states plus Washington D.C. require some level of insured motorist coverage. The required amount of coverage varies from state to state. For example, many states require bodily injury coverage, but only some require property damage coverage as well. It’s always important to be aware of your state’s minimum required auto insurance before looking into new policies.
Does a Regular Auto Policy Help?
Some auto policies include coverage for uninsured and underinsured motorists; however, it usually isn’t enough to cover long-term medical help and property damage. That’s why insurance companies must offer uninsured motorist coverage when you are purchasing an auto policy, and if you elect not to get it, you have to turn it down in writing.
In some cases, your health plan may be able to help cover injuries sustained by an uninsured driver. But, it won’t help with vehicle damage or time off if you’re unable to work. Purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will help alleviate the huge headache of getting hit by an uninsured driver and having to pay out of pocket for expenses.
Don’t Take the Risk, Protect Yourself From Uninsured Drivers
Unfortunately, the state of Florida is notorious for uninsured drivers and is even ranked in the top six for percentage of drivers without insurance. That’s why you can’t take the risk of driving without uninsured motorist coverage. At COBIA Insurance, we have vast experience protecting the citizens of Florida with the right insurance policies. For more information on our services and how we can keep you safe on the road, please contact us today to set up an appointment.
