Understanding Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury (UIM/UM) coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain‑and‑suffering when you're injured by a driver who lacks sufficient insurance or has no insurance at all.

When UIM/UM Benefits Apply

The coverage activates if the at‑fault driver cannot fully compensate you because they are uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified (hit‑and‑run). It also applies when the at‑fault driver's liability limits are lower than your damages.

What Types of Costs Are Covered

UIM/UM bodily injury typically includes:

• Hospital, surgery, and rehabilitation expenses
• Prescription medication and medical devices
• Lost income from time off work
• Permanent disability payments
• Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress

Some policies may also cover funeral expenses if death occurs.

Policy Limits and How They Work

Limits are expressed per person and per accident (e.g., $100,000/$300,000). The per‑person limit caps what a single injured party can receive, while the per‑accident limit caps the total payout for all injured parties in the same crash.

Difference Between Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage steps in when the other driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage fills the gap when the other driver's liability limits are lower than your policy's limits; the insurer pays the difference up to your own limit.

How to File a Claim

Notify your insurer promptly, provide police reports, medical records, and proof of lost wages. Your insurer will investigate, compare the at‑fault driver's coverage (if any) with your policy, and determine the payable amount.

Key Considerations When Choosing Coverage