Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage — What It Covers & What It Costs
Protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your costs.
Get Your Free Quote$50–$200/yr
Average Cost
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Key Benefits
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Understanding Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes vehicle damage when you're in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance or whose coverage isn't sufficient to pay your expenses. About 1 in 8 drivers on U.S. roads is uninsured, making this coverage more important than many people realize.
UM/UIM is split into two components: uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) protects you and your passengers, while uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) covers your vehicle. Some states require one or both, while others make it optional but strongly recommended.
This coverage also typically applies to hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver flees the scene. Without UM/UIM, you'd be left paying your own medical bills and repair costs out of pocket — even though the accident wasn't your fault.
Key Benefits
- Covers your injuries when the at-fault driver is uninsured
- Fills the gap when the other driver's coverage is insufficient
- Applies to hit-and-run accidents
- Very affordable relative to the protection provided
Limitations to Know
- Coverage limits match your liability limits in most states
- Property damage component not available in all states
- Does not apply when you are the at-fault driver
- Some states have restrictions on stacking across vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions
What is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes vehicle damage when you're in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance or whose coverage isn't sufficient to pay your expenses. About 1 in 8 drivers on U.S. roads is uninsured, making this coverage more important than many people realize.
How much does uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage cost?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage typically costs $50–$200/yr. Your actual rate depends on factors like your driving record, location, vehicle, age, and credit score. Comparing quotes from multiple carriers is the best way to find the lowest rate.
Do I need uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Every driver, especially in states with high uninsured motorist rates. Covers your injuries when the at-fault driver is uninsured. Consider your vehicle's value, your financial situation, and whether your lender or state requires this coverage.
How does uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage work?
UM/UIM is split into two components: uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) protects you and your passengers, while uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) covers your vehicle. Some states require one or both, while others make it optional but strongly recommended.
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