When you’re injured in an auto accident, you’ll typically sue the at-fault driver’s insurance company for compensation to help cover the cost of your medical bills, property damages, lost wages, and more. That said, what if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or isn’t sufficiently insured? In this case, you’ll likely file a UM or UIM claim. Continue reading and contact a skilled uninsured motorist accident attorney to learn more about these claims and how our legal team can help you through the process of filing one.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance is a type of coverage that protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have any insurance. Despite state laws requiring drivers to carry liability insurance, many motorists either ignore this requirement or let their policies lapse.
If you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, UM insurance can help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other associated costs. This coverage is crucial because it ensures that you are not left financially devastated due to another driver’s negligence and lack of insurance.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) insurance kicks in when you are involved in an accident with a driver whose insurance coverage is not sufficient to cover the full extent of your damages. In many cases, the at-fault driver may have insurance, but their policy limits are too low to pay for your total expenses.
UIM insurance covers the gap between the at-fault driver’s insurance limit and your actual expenses, ensuring that you receive the compensation you need for medical bills, property damage, lost income, and more. This type of coverage is essential in providing a financial safety net when the responsible party’s insurance is inadequate.
Yes, drivers in New Jersey are required to carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) insurance as part of their auto insurance policy. The state mandates that all automobile insurance policies include both UM and UIM coverage to protect motorists from the financial impact of accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers.
The minimum required coverage limits are set by the state, but it is often advisable to opt for higher limits to ensure greater financial protection. This mandatory coverage underscores the importance of being prepared for all possible scenarios on the road.
If you are hurt in an accident with an uninsured motorist, it is crucial to take specific steps to protect your rights and ensure you can file a successful claim:
Don’t face the complex process of filing for compensation after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist on your own. Contact a skilled Middlesex County uninsured motorist accident attorney from Stathis & Leonardis today. Our consultations are free, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by simply reaching out.