What uninsured motorist coverage does
If another driver causes a crash and has no insurance, their policy can't pay for your injuries. Uninsured motorist coverage steps in on your own policy to help with those costs, up to your limit.
The bodily injury part usually helps with medical bills, lost wages and similar costs for you and your passengers. In some states, a property damage part can help repair your car.
Underinsured coverage fills the gap
A driver may carry insurance, but only the state minimum. If your costs are higher than their limit, underinsured motorist coverage can help with the difference, up to your own limit.
In many states, uninsured and underinsured coverage come together. In others, they are separate choices, so check your declarations page.
Two claim examples
Hypothetical example. An uninsured driver runs a red light and hits your car. You have $12,000 in medical bills. Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage can help pay those bills, up to your limit and subject to your policy terms.
Hypothetical example. The other driver carries $30,000 in coverage, but your medical bills and lost wages reach $80,000. Their policy pays up to $30,000, and underinsured coverage can help with the $50,000 gap, up to your limit.
Hit-and-run crashes
If you can't identify the driver who hit you, uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Many policies treat a hit-and-run driver as uninsured.
Rules vary by state and policy. Some require a police report within a set time, and some limit property damage claims for hit-and-runs. Report the crash right away.
How much to carry
Many drivers match their uninsured and underinsured limits to their own liability limits. That way, you protect yourself as well as you protect others.
Think about your health insurance deductible, how long you could go without a paycheck and who rides with you. A licensed agent can help you weigh the cost of higher limits.
If you have a newer car with a loan, also ask whether uninsured motorist property damage or collision coverage is the better way to protect the car itself where you live.
Getting a quote
CapCenter's insurance agency has licensed agents who compare quotes from multiple carriers. They can show you how different uninsured and underinsured limits change your price, and bundling home and auto usually earns a multi-policy discount.
