Why You Need UM Coverage on Your Auto Policy

Georgia drivers ARE REQUIRED to have insurance coverage BY LAW. However, many drivers DO NOT MAINTAIN ENOUGH COVERAGE TO ADEQUATELY PROTECT OTHER DRIVERS. THIS LEAVES THE POTENTIAL FOR AN UNDERINSURED SITUATION.

You could be vulnerable if you have a crash if you don’t have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage under your own automobile insurance policy. This is typically known as UM ("uninsured") or UIM ("underinsured") coverage.

While liability coverage is required by law to have, limited or minimal coverage amounts may not fully protect you. Having UM/UIM coverage will protect you and your passengers. For example, under Georgia law drivers are only required to have coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Situations often arise from car crash victims where their medical bills far exceed $25,000. Without UM/UIM coverage the victim(s) may only be able to recover those amounts. I advise all of my clients that if they don't have UM/UIM coverage that they should add it to their policy today! UIM and UM coverage is a very important safeguard against these situations and are relatively inexpensive.

If you don’t have it, call your automobile insurance provider and add it to your policy. Also, you should review your insurance policy at least annually. You may want to increase your coverage if you have had any changes to your life such as marriage or a baby to make sure your coverage is enough for your current needs. Hopefully, you will need never need to use it, but it will help you sleep better at night knowing that you and your family are better protected.