No one likes to think about being in an accident, but what happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough? That’s where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) steps in.
What is UM/UIM Coverage?
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Protects you if you’re in an accident and the at-fault driver doesn’t have any insurance.
- Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Protects you if the at-fault driver has some insurance, but not enough to cover all the damage or injuries.
Is It Required in Washington?
Washington requires that UM/UIM coverage is offered when you purchase a policy, but it’s optional to carry. However, it’s highly recommended because around 20% of drivers in Washington don’t have insurance. That’s a big risk!
Why You Should Consider UM/UIM Coverage:
- Medical Bills: If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, your own insurance will step in to cover your medical expenses up to your policy limits.
- Property Damage: If your car is totaled by an underinsured driver, UM/UIM will cover the gap between what their insurance covers and your actual costs.
- Peace of Mind: You can drive knowing you’re protected, even if the other driver is breaking the law by not carrying insurance.
Claims Scenario:
Imagine you’re driving home from work and a distracted driver crashes into you at a stoplight. You find out they don’t have insurance. The damages to your car come out to $12,000, and your medical bills are another $5,000. If you have UM/UIM coverage, your policy will take care of those costs, so you don’t have to worry about how to cover them.
While Washington drivers are required by law to have insurance, many don’t comply. UM/UIM coverage is an affordable way to protect yourself from the unknown. At Evergreen Insurance, we’ll help you add this important coverage to your policy so you can drive with confidence. Contact us today at 360-254-7166.