No matter what kind of driver you are, there is always a level of uncertainty when you get behind the wheel. You can’t control how other people drive; you can only control how you drive, and the conditions you drive under. It isn’t uncommon to encounter a reckless driver who is uninsured or underinsured on the open roads. In this blog we’ll dive into 6 reasons why you need to carry uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Buckle up as we discuss how this specific coverage can serve as a shield for the unpredictable.
What Is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage can benefit you when you’ve been in an accident caused by another driver who has no insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage can benefit you when you’ve been in an accident caused by another driver who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your losses from the accident. While you aren’t required to purchase this coverage in the state of Florida, it is in your best interest to do so as an added layer of security.
Now that we know what it is, let’s discuss why you need it.
1. Protection Against Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers
The first and most obvious reason you need this coverage is to protect yourself in the event that you’re injured in a crash caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. It wouldn’t be fair to have to cover the medical expenses and lost wages that can result from an accident when you aren’t the at-fault party. That being said, even if you are a responsible driver, not every other driver is. If the person who causes your accident is underinsured or not insured at all, they won’t be able to pay for the repercussions of the accident, which means you may have to pay for the expenses out of pocket. That’s why you should take extra precaution by purchasing uninsured or underinsured coverage so that you can navigate the roads with confidence.
Most insurance companies do limit the amount of time you have to make uninsured or underinsured motorist claims, so it’s best to act fast if you are the victim of an auto accident and have this coverage.
2. Coverage For Hit-And-Run Incidents
Another reason you should have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is in case you are the victim of a hit-and-run incident. Unfortunately, not all negligent drivers are going to be accountable when they cause an accident, so you could be hit and the at-fault party could speed off instead of ensuring you are okay, filing a police report, and exchanging insurance information with you (usually because they aren’t insured in the first place). In such an unfortunate situation, uninsured motorist coverage can serve as a safety net so that you aren’t left to deal with the costs of damaged property, injuries, and vehicle repairs on your own.
3. Peace Of Mind
You can’t put a price on peace of mind, and that’s an added benefit to purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Knowing that you’re shielded from the irresponsible behavior of a reckless driver can give you confidence and comfort when you’re navigating the roads. Having this coverage means that in the event you are injured by an uninsured/underinsured driver, any medical expenses, property damage, and other losses will be covered by your policy. Taking a “better safe than sorry” approach can safeguard your finances and provide you with peace of mind, which leads us into the next reason.
4. Financial Security For Medical Expenses
Vehicle accident injuries aren’t just physically debilitating, but also financially debilitating due to the medical expenses that accrue following an accident. Purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can provide financial security in case you are injured.
You work hard for your money, so you shouldn’t have to drain your savings in order to cover the cost of the injuries you sustain in an accident you didn’t cause. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may find yourself responsible for the cost of your hospital stay, surgery, medications, X-rays, physical therapy, and more. You may even need to take time off of work, which can create even greater financial strain.
By equipping yourself with uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, you can prevent the looming monetary challenges that accompany vehicle accidents when the at-fault party isn’t insured or doesn’t have enough insurance.
5. Property Damage Coverage
You’ve probably heard the saying “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” but what about when someone else breaks something and can’t pay to fix it? Are you willing to be the one who does? Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage not only protects you from the costs of medical bills, but can also protect you from the costs of property damage, which includes public and private property, as well as your personal property, which in this instance is your vehicle. You worked hard to purchase a vehicle of your own, so when someone’s negligent behavior damages that vehicle, you shouldn’t have to pay to fix it. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can prevent that from happening.
6. Comprehensive Coverage Options
The final reason you should purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is because it goes beyond a one-size-fits-all solution. It is the type of coverage that can be “stacked” with your other insurance coverage and customized to fit your individual needs.
Don’t Risk A Bad Situation
If you want to protect yourself from the uncertainties that come with driving, it’s important to consider adding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to your insurance plan. In Florida alone, 20.4% of drivers drive uninsured. The comprehensive coverage that uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can provide can make the difference between financial devastation and financial security.
Get Cash For Your Crash: How Injury Law Pros Can Help You!
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, whether or not you had this coverage, our lawyers may be able to help you obtain compensation. Call today to schedule a free consultation where we’ll explain your legal options and more.