The Importance of UM/UIM Motorist Coverage During the Pandemic

A car window shattering


The Coronavirus pandemic has affected all of us in one way or another. For many, it has resulted in significant financial problems, as people working in various industries have suddenly found themselves with significantly less income than they had a few months ago.

As people make less money, it stands to reason that people will stop paying their non-essential bills, which for some people may be their monthly car insurance premiums. Unfortunately, uninsured drivers can result in further economic fallout, as victims may not be able to recover compensation for their accident-related losses. For this reason, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) is more important than ever.

What Happens When You are Hit By an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist?

Typically, when you’re hurt in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, his or her insurance will pay for your damages. If a driver’s insurance has lapsed, however, his or her insurance will not pay for your losses. Likewise, if a motorist doesn’t have sufficient coverage, you would not be able to obtain compensation beyond their policy limits.

In either case, you would have to attempt to collect from the driver personally. Unfortunately for victims, car accidents can result in substantial damages, and many individuals are unable to pay.  Some of the more common damages people sustain in car accidents include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Property damage
  • Physical and emotional pain suffering

It’s a fairly safe bet that a person who has stopped paying their car insurance premiums will not be able to cover thousands of dollars in liability for a car accident.

How Does UM/UIM Coverage Work?

When you purchase uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage from your insurer, your policy will cover your losses in the event that you are involved in an accident with a motorist without insurance or insurance coverage. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that insurance companies - even your own - want to settle every claim for as little as possible. For this reason, you should speak to a lawyer about your UM/UIM claim before starting the process with your insurance company. Some of the specific ways that an attorney can help include:

  • Evaluate your case and determine whether you have a valid claim
  • Document your losses and attempt to negotiate the value of your claim with your insurance company
  • Determine whether you can recover from the driver who hit you
  • File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or your insurance company, if they refuse to pay your claim

Contact Salam & Associates for a Free Consultation

If you have been involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you should speak to an attorney as soon as you can. Our lawyers are licensed in Texas, New Mexico, Michigan and D.C and have been helping victims obtain the compensation to which they are entitled since 1992. To schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney, call our office today at 866-640-8998 or contact us online at www.salampc.com or [email protected].

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