Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the most misunderstood parts of auto insurance—yet it can be one of the most important. Many drivers assume that if they’re involved in an accident, the other driver’s insurance will pay for the damages. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
In this guide, we’ll explain what uninsured motorist coverage is, how it works, what it covers, whether you need it, and how much coverage you should consider—so you can make an informed decision and protect yourself financially.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is a type of auto insurance that protects you if you’re involved in an accident caused by a driver who does not have car insurance or whose insurance is invalid.
In simple terms:
If an uninsured driver hits you and is legally at fault, your uninsured motorist coverage steps in to pay for your losses.
This coverage exists because, despite legal requirements, many drivers still operate vehicles without insurance.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. is uninsured.
Source: https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-uninsured-motorists
Types of Uninsured Motorist Coverage
There are two main types of uninsured motorist coverage:
1. Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI)
This covers medical expenses and related costs if you or your passengers are injured by an uninsured driver.
UMBI typically covers:
- Hospital and medical bills
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral expenses (in fatal accidents)
2. Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD)
This pays for damage to your vehicle or property caused by an uninsured driver.
UMPD may cover:
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Damage to personal property inside the car
- Hit-and-run accidents (in some states)
Note: In many states, collision coverage can overlap with UMPD, but uninsured motorist coverage may come with lower deductibles.
What About Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is often paired with underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, which applies when the at-fault driver has insurance—but not enough to cover your damages.
Example:
- Your medical bills total $80,000
- The at-fault driver’s policy limit is $25,000
- Underinsured motorist coverage can help pay the remaining $55,000
Many insurers bundle UM and UIM together.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required?
The requirement depends on state law.
Some states require uninsured motorist coverage, others make it optional, and some allow you to waive it in writing.
States that commonly require UM coverage include:
- New York
- Illinois
- Connecticut
- Maryland
- South Carolina
You can check your state’s requirements through your Department of Motor Vehicles or reputable sources like:
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/uninsured-motorist-coverage
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Not Cover?
Uninsured motorist coverage does not cover everything. Common exclusions include:
- Damage you cause to another person’s vehicle
- Vehicle damage beyond policy limits
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Accidents where you’re at fault
- Intentional acts
It also doesn’t replace liability insurance, which is still legally required in most states.
Do You Really Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
In most cases, yes—especially if you want strong financial protection.
You should seriously consider uninsured motorist coverage if:
- You live in a state with a high number of uninsured drivers
- You don’t have strong health insurance
- You drive frequently or commute long distances
- You want protection against hit-and-run accidents
Medical costs can escalate quickly, and without UM coverage, you may be forced to pay out of pocket—or attempt to sue an uninsured driver who may not have the ability to pay.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Should You Get?
A common recommendation is to match your uninsured motorist limits to your liability limits.
Example:
- If your liability coverage is $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident
- Consider the same limits for uninsured motorist coverage
While higher limits cost more, uninsured motorist coverage is generally affordable compared to other types of insurance.
According to industry estimates, it may cost $30–$100 per year, depending on your state, driving history, and coverage limits.
Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?
In many states, yes.
If a driver hits your vehicle and flees the scene:
- UMBI may cover injuries
- UMPD may cover vehicle damage
Some states require proof that the accident was truly a hit-and-run, such as a police report.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage vs. Collision Coverage
| Feature | Uninsured Motorist | Collision |
|---|---|---|
| Covers uninsured drivers | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Covers your own fault | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Deductible | Often low or none | Usually higher |
| Covers injuries | ✅ Yes (UMBI) | ❌ No |
Many drivers choose both for complete protection.
Final Thoughts
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you from one of the biggest risks on the road: drivers who ignore insurance laws. Even if you’re a careful driver, you can’t control the actions of others.
For a relatively low cost, uninsured motorist coverage can:
- Pay medical bills
- Cover lost wages
- Repair or replace your vehicle
- Protect your finances and peace of mind
If you’re reviewing your auto insurance policy, uninsured motorist coverage is not something to overlook—it’s a smart and often essential safeguard.