What is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage and why should I think about having it?

A: These two types of coverage protect you from injuries in cases where the other driver was either underinsured or uninsured. Underinsured motorist coverage pays for medical expenses, lost ages, and other damages when you or your passengers are hurt in an accident caused by a driver with auto insurance coverage too small to pay the bills. Your insurer will make up the difference between the negligent driver’s coverage and the maximum of your own policy. Uninsured motorist coverage operates the same way, except that instead of making up the difference between the negligent driver’s coverage and your own policy limits, your insurance company will be responsible for all of your bills. In the states that we practice, where minimum mandatory coverage can be as little as $15,000 it is wise to consider signing up for uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. In a catastrophic accident, your medical bills and lost wages can easily exceed $15,000.

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