Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Liability insurance is a requirement by law, but unfortunately not everyone plays by the rules. Uninsured Motorist, or UM, covers your injury costs if you are hit by someone without insurance.  Underinsured Motorist, UIM, covers you if you are hit by someone who may have insurance, but not enough to cover your injury expenses.

Alabama law requires every driver to have at least $25,000 in liability insurance.  With the minimum amount of liability insurance, if you cause an accident, your insurance will pay up to $25,000 toward the injury or property damage of the vehicle or person you hit.  Unfortunately, many people do not have liability insurance.  A recent study showed that one in four vehicles are not insured. If an uninsured driver hits you and causes damage, you will most likely be left with the bill if you do not have uninsured motorist insurance.

Many times we are asked if uninsured motorist insurance is a requirement on your policy. You do have the option to waive UM/UIM coverage when you purchase your auto policy. However, if you choose not to have it, you might find it difficult, if not impossible, to cover your losses from an accident with an uninsured motorist. It is some of the least expensive insurance you can buy, and depending on your policy, many times it only costs you an additional $15-20 every six months.

In order to be protected from uninsured drivers, make sure you have included UM/UIM coverage on your auto policy. The higher the limits, the better. The next thing you can do is practice defensive driving. Always be cautious of other drivers. Plan ahead for the unexpected, watch your speed, always use your turn signals, and keep a safe distance. If you have any further questions, or would like one of our injury attorneys to review your auto insurance policy, please feel free to stop by our office at 51 N. Florida Street anytime, or give us a call at (251) 300-2000.