Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) insurance coverage are key components of any auto insurance policy. Yet, many individuals may not fully grasp their importance until they find themselves in need. In the event of a car accident where the at-fault driver is either uninsured or does not carry sufficient insurance to cover the damages, UM and UIM coverage can provide invaluable protection.
UM coverage is a type of insurance that protects you if you are involved in an accident caused by a driver who does not have auto insurance. In these situations, UM coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
UIM coverage provides protection when you are involved in an accident with a driver who carries insurance but not enough to cover the full extent of your damages. When that happens, UIM coverage can bridge the gap between the at-fault driver’s insurance limits and the actual costs incurred due to the accident.
This coverage is particularly vital in states where minimum insurance requirements may be insufficient to cover the expenses associated with serious injuries or extensive property damage.
Does Delaware Have UM/UIM Requirements?
In Delaware, UM/UIM coverage is not mandatory by law. However, insurance companies are required to offer it to policyholders. If a policyholder decides not to purchase it, they must reject it in writing.
UM coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have any insurance, while UIM coverage applies when the other driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover the damages incurred in the accident. Given the potential financial risks of being in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, many people purchase these coverages even though they are not legally required.
If you have more specific questions or need details about your personal insurance situation, it is always a good idea to consult with an insurance agent or a legal professional in Delaware.
What Are the Benefits of UM/UIM Coverage?
UM/UIM coverage is important because it provides a layer of financial protection in situations where other parties are unable or unwilling to cover the costs of an accident. Without these coverages, you could be left facing substantial expenses, including medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost income, without adequate recourse for reimbursement.
Given the prevalence of uninsured and underinsured drivers on the road, UM/UIM coverage offers peace of mind and ensures you are not left bearing the burden of someone else’s negligence.
The benefits of UM/UIM coverage are significant:
- It provides financial security by helping cover expenses that might otherwise fall on your shoulders in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- UM & UIM coverage typically extends to passengers in your vehicle, offering protection for their injuries.
- UM & UIM coverage can streamline the claims process by allowing you to deal directly with your insurance company rather than pursuing compensation from the at-fault party.
How Does UM/UIM Coverage Work in Hit-and-Run Accidents?
In the aftermath of a hit-and-run, identifying the fleeing driver may prove impossible, leaving you uncertain about your options for compensation. Fortunately, UM coverage can provide financial protection if you are injured or your vehicle is damaged in an accident where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Depending on the nature of the claim, UM/UIM benefits might cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
A Delaware Car Accident Lawyer at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC Can Provide You With Experienced Legal Guidance After a Car Accident
If you have questions about UM/UIM coverage or need assistance with a car accident claim, contact a skilled Delaware car accident lawyer at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC for personalized guidance and support. Call 302-888-1221 or submit our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, Newark, and Middletown.