UNDER INSURED AND UNINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE CLAIMS

If you have been hurt in a hit-and-run accident or in a South Carolina car accident with a driver who does not have adequate insurance coverage, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries and expenses.

In many cases, your own insurance policy has uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage to protect you. It is important to understand what this coverage is, and when it applies. It’s also critical to seek help from an attorney to seek proper compensation on a UM or UIM claim. Even though it is “your” insurance company, their goal is still to pay out as little as possible. You need an auto accident lawyer at Stewart Law Offices who will stand up for your rights.

Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

In South Carolina, uninsured motorist coverage is required by law. Even if it wasn’t legally required, this coverage is essential to ensure you don’t end up struggling to pay expensive medical bills and car repair costs in the event that you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Additionally, adding uninsured/underinsured motorist protection should not add much to your monthly premium. It is usually only 5% of your annual total, though it can vary depending on a number of factors.

You usually want a similar amount of coverage of UM/UIM coverage as your regular bodily injury coverage, generally around $500,000 worth of coverage. You can consult with your insurance agent to determine what the appropriate amount of coverage and what kind of plan is best for you and your family.

What Is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

An uninsured motorist is someone who either has no insurance at all, whose insurance does not meet state minimum requirements, or whose insurance company denied their claim. This can also be used to cover you in the event you are involved in a hit-and-run accident where the other driver could not be identified.