Worried about uninsured drivers in Virginia?

Worried about being hit by an uninsured driver?

In Virginia, it’s illegal to drive without car insurance. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop uninsured drivers.  So, you need to protect yourself by purchasing underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). Never heard of UIM? Make sure to watch our video and keep reading!

What is underinsured motorist coverage and how does it work?

UIM is car insurance that you buy to protect yourself from uninsured drivers (or underinsured drivers).  If you’re hit by such a driver, you can tap into your own UIM policy if you need it.  And because it’s a “no fault” policy, it won’t hurt your premiums if you use it. 

How do you know how much UIM you have? 

Take a look at your insurance summary page (also known as a “declarations page.”) In addition to your liability and property damage insurance, there should be a separate number for UIM coverage.  If you didn’t purchase any, or you can’t tell how much you have, get on the phone with your insurance company right away.

How much UIM should you buy?

At Abrenio Law, we recommend purchasing $1 million in coverage.  This may seem like a lot, but if you’re severely injured, it will be invaluable to help you and your family if you’re seriously insured by an uninsured driver (or under insured driver).  Surprisingly, obtaining $1 million in coverage frequently isn’t much more expensive than purchasing minimal policies.  In our experience, we found that increases to $1 million dollars in coverage can be as little as a couple of hundred dollars a year.  

But, James, I’m “fully insured,” and have an umbrella policy.

We hear this all of the time. However, we often find that you didn’t purchase exactly what you thought you did. When it comes to being “fully insured,” injury victims are frequently sold minimum policy limits by the insurance companies who inform them that’s all they will need.  Insurance agents often push umbrella policies that don’t even have UIM protection!  Do yourself a favor and take a look at your policy now!  Insurance is like wearing a seatbelt.  It only counts if you have it on when a crash happens.  Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Still have questions?

Make sure to check out our Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Practice Pages where we’ve answered many other questions you likely have.  James Abrenio is a Fairfax-Based Personal Injury & Criminal Defense attorney who practices throughout Northern Virginia. You can learn more about James Abrenio, some of our Prior Results, and Read Our Reviews.  Make sure to contact us at Ph. 703-570-4180 for your Free Consultation.