Why Having Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage Is Important
Getting into a car accident is already stressful — but it’s even worse if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. This happens more often than you’d think. That’s why Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is one of the most important parts of your auto insurance policy.
What Is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?
UM coverage protects you when you’re injured in a car accident caused by a driver who has:
- No auto insurance at all
- Not enough insurance to cover your damages (Underinsured Motorist, or UIM)
- Fled the scene (hit-and-run)
It typically helps pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs
- In some cases, property damage
Why UM Coverage Is So Important
1. 1 in 8 Drivers Are Uninsured
According to national data, about 12% of drivers are uninsured — and in some areas of Georgia and Alabama, that number is even higher. If one of them hits you, you may be left with the bill.
2. UM Pays When the Other Driver Can’t
If the at-fault driver has no coverage (or flees the scene), UM coverage steps in and acts like their insurance. It ensures you’re not stuck paying for someone else’s mistake.
3. Fills Gaps Your Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Even with good health insurance, you may face:
- High deductibles and co-pays
- Limited coverage for therapy or rehab
- No compensation for pain and suffering
UM helps cover what your health insurance doesn’t — and it pays faster.
4. Covers More Than Just You
UM coverage often applies to:
- Your passengers
- You as a pedestrian or cyclist
- You in someone else’s car
This means your whole household can be protected by one policy.
5. Affordable, High-Impact Coverage
UM coverage is typically low-cost and offers high-value protection. You can often add it to your policy for just a few extra dollars per month — but it can provide thousands (or even hundreds of thousands) in benefits.
FAQs About UM Coverage
Is UM coverage required in Georgia or Alabama?
No, UM coverage is not required in either state — but insurers in Georgia must offer it, and you have to reject it in writing to opt out. In Alabama, it’s also optional but highly recommended.
Can I use UM coverage in a hit-and-run?
Yes. In both Georgia and Alabama, UM typically applies in hit-and-run cases, even if the other driver is never found.
What’s the difference between UM and UIM?
- UM = The at-fault driver has no insurance
- UIM = The at-fault driver has not enough insurance
Most policies bundle them together for broad protection.
How Gillani Law Can Help
At Gillani Law, we’ve helped clients across Georgia and Alabama navigate insurance claims involving uninsured and underinsured drivers. If you've been hit and the other driver has no coverage, we can:
- Review your UM/UIM coverage
- Help you file your claim
- Fight for every dollar you're owed
- Represent your interests in negotiations or court
