There are two types of uninsured motorist (UM) available in some states, uninsured motorist bodily injury and property damage, but in general when people refer to uninsured motorist they are talking about bodily injury. We will explain both types of coverages though for you here.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (BI) typically covers you, the insured members of your household and your passengers for bodily/personal injuries, damages or death caused by an at-fault uninsured or hit-and-run driver. If you are involved in an accident where the other driver is at fault but has no insurance, your policy will cover your medical expenses, up to the limit on your policy. The coverage limits refer to the maximum amount that will be paid per person, per incident, respectively.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (PD) normally covers your auto when property damage is sustained by an insured and the negligent operator does not possess insurance. If you do not have Collision coverage, Uninsured Motorist Property Damage coverage pays up to a certain amount for repairs to the insured car (some states have limits at $3500, some are lower and some are higher). If you have Collision coverage, Uninsured Motorist Property Damage coverage only pays your Collision deductible (in some states).

Some states require uninsured motorist coverage while many do not. Your state's DMV or insurance regulator can tell you if this type of coverage is mandatory or optional in your state. To get a quote for online car insurance click here.