What is Uninsured Motorists Coverage?
Why Texas Drivers Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage
What is Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if you're hit by a driver who doesn’t have auto insurance. It typically includes:
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): Covers vehicle repairs if the at-fault driver has no insurance.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage works similarly, protecting you if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to fully cover your losses.
Why Is UM/UIM Coverage Important in Texas?
While Texas law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, many drivers either ignore the law or carry only the bare minimum coverage.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, nearly 13% of drivers nationwide are uninsured, and in Texas, that number is even higher.
Without UM/UIM coverage, you could be left with significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Does UM/UIM Coverage Protect Against Hit-and-Run Accidents?
If a hit-and-run driver damages your vehicle or causes injuries, your uninsured motorist coverage can help cover the costs. Be sure to get a police report of the incident.
However, not all policies cover hit-and-run damage to your car; collision coverage may also be necessary in some cases.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do You Need?
Texas drivers typically have the option to choose their UM/UIM coverage limits. A good rule of thumb is to match your liability limits. For example, if your liability coverage is $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident, you may want similar limits for your UM/UIM coverage to ensure adequate protection.
For UMPD (Property Damage), consider selecting a limit that reflects your vehicle’s value, especially if you don’t have collision coverage. If your car is worth $20,000, having at least that much in UMPD can help you avoid major out-of-pocket costs in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver.
