Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the most important optional coverages on a California auto policy, and it’s also one of the most commonly skipped. Given how many uninsured drivers share the road in this state, it’s worth understanding exactly what this coverage does.
What Uninsured Motorist Coverage Does
If you’re in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have insurance, uninsured motorist coverage on your own policy steps in to cover your medical expenses and, depending on your specific coverage, vehicle damage – essentially standing in for the insurance the at-fault driver should have had.
Uninsured vs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage
These are related but distinct coverages. Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all. Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to fully cover your damages – a common scenario given how many drivers carry only state-minimum liability limits.
Why California Drivers Should Take This Seriously
California has a meaningful percentage of drivers on the road without valid insurance, despite it being legally required. Combined with the number of drivers carrying only minimum liability limits, the odds of being in an accident where the at-fault party can’t fully cover your damages are higher than many drivers assume.
What This Coverage Typically Includes
Bodily Injury Protection
Covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Property Damage Protection
Some policies include coverage for vehicle damage under uninsured motorist protection, though this varies by carrier and specific policy terms.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If the at-fault driver flees the scene and can’t be identified, this typically falls under uninsured motorist coverage as well, since there’s no identifiable insurance to pursue.
How Much Coverage Should You Carry?
Many agents recommend matching your uninsured/underinsured motorist limits to your liability limits, so you have consistent protection whether you’re the one causing an accident or the one affected by someone else’s inadequate coverage.
Why Some Drivers Skip This Coverage
Because it’s optional and adds to the premium, some drivers decline it to save money without fully understanding the risk they’re accepting. Given how affordable this coverage typically is relative to the protection it provides, most agents recommend against skipping it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in California?
No, it’s optional, though it’s commonly recommended given the number of uninsured drivers on California roads.
Does this coverage protect passengers in my car too?
Typically yes, uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage generally extends to passengers in your vehicle at the time of the accident.
How much does uninsured motorist coverage typically cost?
It’s generally a relatively affordable addition to a policy compared to the financial protection it offers, though the exact cost varies by carrier and coverage limits.
Make Sure You’re Protected From Uninsured Drivers
Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency can review your current uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage and help you find the right protection level. Contact us today for a free policy review.