You may drive carefully, follow traffic laws and keep your insurance up to date. But what happens if someone crashes into you, and they have no insurance or not enough to pay for your injuries? Many drivers in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C., do not realize that their own policy might not provide enough protection. Reviewing your UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage) can make a big difference after a serious accident.
What UM/UIM coverage means
UM/UIM stands for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. These parts of your auto policy help pay for your injuries and losses when an at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover the damage. This may include medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. In some cases, this is the only available coverage, especially if the other driver cannot be found or does not have the money to pay.
Even if you have this coverage, it is important to know how much it actually protects you.
Why your coverage may not be enough
Many drivers carry only the minimum UM/UIM coverage required by law or none at all. But low coverage limits may leave you with large out-of-pocket costs. Common shortfalls include:
- Low policy limits: Coverage may stop at $25,000 or $30,000, which might cover surgery or a hospital stay
- No wage replacement: You may lose income during recovery that your policy does not cover
- No long-term care funding: Physical therapy or in-home help may go beyond your policy’s limits
- Gaps in coverage coordination: Your health insurance may not help or might try to get repaid from your auto claim
Knowing these risks is especially important in areas where drivers cross state lines every day.
How these claims work
Each state handles UM/UIM coverage differently. In Maryland and Washington, D.C., insurance companies must offer it, but drivers can choose less coverage. In Virginia, this coverage is required unless you pay a special fee to drive without insurance; these rules matter, especially for federal workers or military members who commute through multiple states. In some cases, the laws of the state where the crash happened, not where you live, may apply.
No matter where you are, it is a good idea to check your coverage before something happens.
Consider reviewing your policy
UM/UIM coverage may help pay for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages if the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your losses. Knowing your limits now may protect you from unexpected costs later. If you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, consider consulting with a car accident attorney so they may help you understand what your policy covers and what options you may have.