Why Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage May Be the Most Important Part of Your Auto Insurance Policy
At Habtemariam Law Firm we’ve seen firsthand how devastating a serious car accident can
be—physically, emotionally, and financially. But what many people don’t realize is how
vulnerable they are if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough (or any) insurance to cover the
damage. That’s where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage becomes crucial.
What Is UIM Coverage?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is a type of auto insurance that protects
you when the other driver either has no insurance at all or doesn’t have enough to pay for
your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Even though auto insurance is required by law in most states, a shocking number of drivers
are either uninsured or carry only the minimum coverage—which often isn’t nearly enough
after a serious accident.
Real-World Example: Why It Matters
Imagine you’re hit by a driver who only has the state minimum liability coverage—say
$25,000. You suffer a broken leg, need surgery, and are out of work for months. Your
medical bills alone could exceed $50,000, not including lost wages or pain and suffering.
Without UIM coverage, you may only recover that $25,000—and that’s if the other driver’s
insurer pays promptly. With UIM coverage, your own policy can step in and cover the
difference, up to your coverage limits.
Why UIM Coverage Is Especially Critical
• Medical care is expensive – A short hospital stay or surgery can cost tens of
thousands of dollars.
• Hit-and-run accidents happen – If the at-fault driver flees and isn’t identified, your
UIM coverage can still protect you.
• Many drivers carry inadequate insurance – According to the Insurance Research
Council, nearly 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. are uninsured.
• Peace of mind – UIM gives you a financial safety net in one of life’s most
unpredictable moments.
How Much UIM Coverage Should You Carry?
As a general rule, you should carry as much UIM coverage as you do liability coverage. If
you’re willing to protect others with $100,000 in liability insurance, protect yourself and
your family with at least that much in UIM. It’s surprisingly affordable and could make a lifechanging difference in the event of a crash.
Final Thoughts
We hope you never need to use your UIM coverage. But if you do, you’ll be incredibly glad
you have it. And if you’ve already been injured in an accident and are unsure about your
insurance rights, we’re here to help.
Contact Habtemariam Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll help you
understand your coverage and fight for the compensation you deserve
