Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage

Protection for you when the other driver has too little insurance, or none.

Industry studies estimate that roughly one in seven U.S. drivers is uninsured, and many more carry only state-minimum limits. Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage protects you from that gap.

What it covers

Uninsured motorist bodily injury: your injuries when an at-fault driver has no insurance, and in many states, in a hit-and-run.
Underinsured motorist bodily injury: your injuries above the at-fault driver's limits, up to your UIM limit.
Uninsured motorist property damage: damage to your car in some states, often with a small deductible.

Is it required?

Some states require UM or UIM; many others require insurers to offer it and let you reject it in writing. Rules vary widely, so check your state's requirements when you compare quotes.

How much to carry

A common approach is to match your UM/UIM limits to your own liability limits. Because it protects you and your passengers, it is often one of the better values on a policy.

When comparing, confirm whether UM/UIM is "stacked" or "unstacked" where your state allows stacking. Stacked coverage combines limits across vehicles and costs more.

This guide is general information from AutoRateNow, not insurance, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules vary by state and insurer.