Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist coverage (also known as UM/UIM coverage) is a form of insurance coverage which is intended to protect drivers and passengers when they are injured in a crash by someone driving without insurance (or without sufficient insurance). If the driver that causes the accident is uninsured or underinsured, than the injured person can, in many cases, use their own UM/UIM coverage to cover medical bills and other expenses.
Unfortunately, there are far too many people still driving without sufficient insurance – or without any insurance at all. Given that fact, as well as the relatively low cost, UM/UIM coverage can be a wonderful tool to protect drivers and passengers on the road. Ohio no longer requires UM/UIM coverage. In fact, since 2001, insurance companies are no longer required to even offer such coverage. Therefore, many drivers aren’t aware that it is even available, let alone whether they have it as a part of their policies. If you are unsure whether or not you have UM/UIM coverage, you should check your policies or contact your agent. If you are in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it can make an important difference.
