What is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage provides coverage to you in the event that you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver. UM coverage pays you for damages for injury and property damage when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or when the insurance is less the minimum limits for the state of South Carolina. A motor vehicle is also considered uninsured if the driver is unknown, such as in the case of a hit-and-run accident.
Is uninsured motorist coverage mandatory?
Auto insurance is one of the most commonly used types of personal insurance. South Carolina law requires that you purchase liability and uninsured motorist cover to drive legally in the state. Uninsured motorist coverage is not just a legal requirement. It helps to protect you in the event of an accident with another driver who has no insurance. If you’re injured or your property is damaged by an uninsured motorist, UM coverage can provide you with compensation to recover your losses and cover your medical expenses.
What about Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage?
Underinsured motorist coverage is a type of auto insurance policy that can be used if the driver responsible for you motor vehicle accident was underinsured. Unlike uninsured motorist coverage, UIM coverage is optional. Why purchase this type of insurance in addition to UM coverage, then? The at-fault driver may have insurance but it might not be enough to compensate you for all of your damages. Often medical bills and expenses related to personal injuries from auto accidents will exceed the at-fault driver’s liability policy – meaning that unless you have UIM coverage to cover the rest, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
If you have any questions regarding uninsured motorist coverage following your auto accident, don’t hesitate to contact The Clardy Law Firm. We’re used to dealing with insurance companies and we’ll fight to help get you the compensation you rightfully deserve following your auto, motorcycle, or truck accident. Contact us today for more information.
