When you’re involved in a car accident, you expect that the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover your damages. But what happens if the driver has no insurance or doesn’t have enough to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses? This is where uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage come into play.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM)
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance. Despite Wisconsin law requiring all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, many drivers still operate vehicles without coverage. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, UM coverage helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you’d normally seek from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
In Wisconsin, all auto insurance policies must include uninsured motorist coverage with at least the following minimum limits:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
These minimum limits may not be enough in a severe accident, so it’s often wise to purchase higher coverage limits for added protection.
Understanding Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM)
Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover all your damages. In Wisconsin, UIM coverage helps bridge the gap between what the at-fault driver’s insurance pays and your total damages.
While Wisconsin law does not require underinsured motorist coverage, insurers must offer it, and many drivers opt to include it in their policies. Common coverage limits start at:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
Higher limits can provide greater financial security, especially in cases involving serious injuries.
Why is UM/UIM Coverage Important?
- Financial Protection – Medical bills and lost wages from an accident can be substantial. UM/UIM coverage ensures you’re not left paying out-of-pocket if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents – If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run and the driver is never found, uninsured motorist coverage can help cover your damages.
- Peace of Mind – You can’t control whether other drivers follow the law, but you can protect yourself with adequate UM/UIM coverage.
How UM/UIM Coverage Relates to Personal Injury Claims
When you’re injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, filing a personal injury claim can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, your UM/UIM coverage can be used to cover your expenses.
However, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, even under your own UM/UIM policy. A personal injury attorney can help negotiate with insurers and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Legal representation can be crucial when dealing with complex claims, denied benefits, or low settlement offers.
How to Choose the Right UM/UIM Coverage
While Wisconsin requires a minimum level of UM coverage, it’s often a good idea to purchase higher limits to better protect yourself and your family. When selecting coverage, consider:
- Your health insurance coverage (and potential gaps)
- Your income and ability to cover expenses if you’re injured
- The number of uninsured or underinsured drivers on the road
Consulting a personal injury lawyer
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a crucial safety net for Wisconsin drivers. Without it, you could be left paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses and lost wages if you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Reviewing your policy and choosing adequate UM/UIM limits can provide financial security and peace of mind in case the unexpected happens.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Bykhovsky Law, we understand that car accidents affect more than just your physical health. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, we’re committed to fighting for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION with our personal injury attorney.
