Why raising your limits on uninsured and underinsured motorists coverage is money well spent

Written by: Jessica L. Phillips

Purchasing a car or truck usually requires a great deal of research and planning. Visiting multiple car lots or scouring listings online should be done with attention to every detail. A motor vehicle represents a significant investment in money, one that should not be taken lightly.

Whether it occurs days after driving the vehicle off the lot or months or years into the future, you may find yourself involved in an accident. Even if it wasn’t your fault, you are still dealing with the aftermath that ranges from physical pain to uncertainty as to the condition of your preferred mode of transportation.

An investment at risk due to uninsured/underinsured drivers

While you may feel comforted in the knowledge that you have comprehensive insurance, that comfort can dissipate upon discovering that the party responsible for the crash lacked insurance coverage or purchased a policy that does not cover the damages caused by them.

Unfortunately, many drivers throughout California operate their cars without adequate or any insurance coverage. Add to that negligent actions caused by distracted driving or operating vehicles under the influence only makes a bad situation for you that much worse.

Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) make up for what the responsible party lacked following an accident, provided that the individual is known and did not flee the scene. Whether they drove without coverage or with minimal insurance that does not come close to covering the damages, you have options. The aforementioned investment you made in the vehicle should also include UM and UIM to cover bodily injury and vehicle damage.

With pandemic-driven shutdowns continuing, California roads may not be as busy. However, accidents in the state and throughout the country have increased significantly due to speeding and reckless driving. Never has considering uninsured coverage been more critical.

A quick review of your insurance documents may reveal shortcomings in your policy that require immediate action to raise the limits and protect your investment.