When navigating the beautiful roads of South Dakota, the last thing on your mind might be the financial burdens that could arise in the event of an accident with a reckless and uninsured or underinsured driver.
However, the reality is stark: many drivers on the road are either uninsured or carry minimal insurance that wouldn’t cover the damages of a significant accident. This is why it’s prudent to invest in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). It’s an add-on to your insurance policy that can act as a crucial safeguard for you and your family.
What is UM/UIM coverage?
UM/UIM coverage can protect your family if you get involved in an accident where the responsible driver has insufficient insurance or isn’t insured at all. Liability insurance is mandatory for every motorist, but unfortunately, not every driver complies. Even if the responsible driver is insured, their minimum coverage amount may not cover catastrophic injuries. Thankfully, UM/UIM coverage can step in to fill these gaps, helping to ensure you aren’t left financially vulnerable.
The prevalence of uninsured drivers
Nationally, about 13% of drivers are uninsured or have insufficient insurance coverage. These alarming statistics are a stark reminder of the financial burden you may be exposed to in the event of an accident. Without UM/UIM coverage, you could face substantial out-of-pocket expenses that could destabilize you financially overnight.
Suppose your family sustain catastrophic injuries in a collision with a reckless and uninsured or underinsured motorist. In that case, your medical bills can quickly escalate. Furthermore, vehicle repair costs can add another layer of financial burden.
This is not to mention the potential loss of wages if your injuries render you unable to work. UM/UIM coverage can provide a safety net for your family, covering these expenses up to your policy limits. This coverage can help ensure that an uninsured or underinsured driver’s negligence doesn’t become your financial nightmare.
Driving is an essential part of life in South Dakota. Unfortunately, the risk of crashing into uninsured or underinsured drivers is real and significant. For this reason, UM/UIM coverage can be an invaluable component of a comprehensive auto insurance policy. With that said, it can help to consult a trusted legal team in the event that an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver does occur. Making this effort can help you to maximize your compensation and minimize your stress. Top of Form