You never know what will happen. Car accidents can happen at any time, and the financial fallout from a crash can be overwhelming, particularly if the responsible driver does not have sufficient insurance to cover the damages. In Texas, where the number of uninsured and underinsured drivers remains high, having Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is essential for protecting your financial well-being after an accident. As a personal injury attorney, I often advise clients on the importance of UM/UIM coverage and how it can be a lifesaver when the unexpected occurs.
The major question to ask is: WHEN IS THE LAST TIME YOU LOOKED AT YOUR INSURANCE POLICY? This may just be a life saver for you!
What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage? (UIM COVERAGE)
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a type of car insurance that protects you if you're involved in an accident caused by another driver who either doesn’t have any insurance (uninsured) or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the full extent of your injuries and damages (underinsured). UM/UIM coverage can be applied to injuries sustained in car accidents where the at-fault driver is either uninsured or underinsured, and it can also cover hit-and-run accidents.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This applies when the responsible driver has no insurance, leaving you to shoulder the costs of medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repair or replacement.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: This comes into play when the at-fault driver has insurance, but the coverage limits are too low to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses incurred due to the accident.
Texas law does not require drivers to carry UM/UIM coverage, but it is highly recommended, especially considering the state’s high rates of uninsured drivers.
Why is UM/UIM Coverage Vital in Texas?
High Rate of Uninsured Drivers in Texas: Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of uninsured motorists. According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately 14-16% of drivers in Texas are uninsured. To be honest with you, this is likely to be MUCH MORE!
This means that in one out of every six accidents, the at-fault driver may not have insurance to cover the costs of your medical treatment, car repairs, or lost income. Without UM coverage, the financial burden falls entirely on the injured party, which can be devastating.
Protection Against Underinsured Drivers: Even when the at-fault driver has insurance, their coverage may not be enough to fully compensate for your damages, especially in cases involving serious injuries. Medical bills can escalate quickly, and if you’re unable to work due to your injuries, the loss of income can further strain your finances. Without underinsured motorist coverage, you may be left facing significant financial hardship, even if the other driver has some level of insurance.
Texas is a "Fault" State: Texas is a “fault” state when it comes to car accidents, meaning that the driver who is determined to be at fault for the accident is responsible for compensating the other party. If the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance or no insurance at all, you may need to file a claim with your own insurer under your UM/UIM policy. This coverage allows you to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even property damage, ensuring you don’t bear the full burden of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
Cost-Effective Protection: Adding UM/UIM coverage to your policy is relatively inexpensive, especially considering the significant financial protection it offers. For a small increase in your premium, you can ensure that you’re covered in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. This type of coverage can make a big difference in the outcome of a car accident, preventing you from being left with a mountain of medical bills and repair costs.
Peace of Mind: Accidents can be stressful enough without the added worry of how to pay for your recovery. UM/UIM coverage provides peace of mind, knowing that if you are in an accident caused by someone who cannot pay for your damages, your own insurance will step in to cover the costs. This coverage acts as a safety net, ensuring that your recovery doesn’t become an overwhelming financial burden.
In the unpredictable world of driving, having uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is an essential part of protecting yourself and your family in Texas. As a personal injury attorney, I have seen firsthand how devastating it can be for victims of car accidents to face significant medical bills and lost wages, only to discover that the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. By ensuring that you have sufficient UM/UIM coverage, you’re safeguarding your financial future and ensuring that you won’t be left in a precarious position following an accident. Don’t take chances with your health and financial security—speak with your insurance provider today about adding this important coverage to your policy.
To schedule a FREE and COMPLIMENTARY INSURANCE POLICY REVIEW- contact, admin@narvioslawfirm.com
If you or anyone you know has been involved in an accident… TAKE IT TO THE BANK!
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