Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage explained

Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage protect you when the driver who caused a crash has no insurance, or not enough to cover your costs. With many drivers carrying only minimum limits, this coverage fills a common and expensive gap.

Uninsured vs underinsured

Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all, including many hit-and-run cases. Underinsured motorist coverage applies when they have insurance but their limits are too low to cover your injuries or damage.

What it covers

UM and UIM typically pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes damage to your vehicle, up to the limits you choose. The exact split between bodily injury and property damage depends on your state and policy.

Is it required?

Some states require UM and UIM coverage; many make it optional but require insurers to offer it. Even where optional, it is usually inexpensive relative to what it protects against.

Frequently asked questions

＋ Do I need uninsured motorist coverage if I have health insurance?

Health insurance may cover some injuries, but uninsured motorist coverage can also pay for lost wages, deductibles, and costs your health plan does not, and may cover passengers. Many drivers carry both.

＋ Does uninsured motorist coverage apply to hit-and-run?

In many states, yes. Uninsured motorist coverage often applies when an unidentified driver flees the scene, though documentation and rules vary by state.

＋ Is underinsured motorist the same as uninsured?

No. Uninsured applies when the at-fault driver has no coverage; underinsured applies when they have coverage but not enough to pay your full costs.

Educational content only — not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Requirements and pricing vary by state.

What happens when the other driver is not insured?