While most all states in the US require at least liability insurance there are drivers that fail to comply with the law and are driving without insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage is there to help you if you are hit by person that is not carrying insurance to cover your injuries (uninsured motorist bodily injury) or car damages (uninsured motorist property damage).

Most states auto insurers offer uninsured motorist bodily injury (UM or UMBI) and in several states insurers can also offer uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD). The latter is not available in all states and even when it is drivers may choose collision coverage to fill this need instead.

Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other general damages when policyholders, authorized drivers, or passengers are injured in an accident caused by a driver who has no car insurance coverage.

Covered costs for uninsured motorist coverage are subject to the limits you choose when you buy auto insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage may also pay for injuries sustained in hit-and-run accidents depending upon state laws and the terms of your policy.

UMBI coverages are available in most states. Many states laws actually require you to purchase it as a part of your auto insurance policy.

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage protects you if your vehicle is damaged in an accident involving a driver who has no car insurance coverage. UMPD coverage generally pays up to the limit you purchase when you buy auto insurance.

UM property damage coverage is available in 26 states and the District of Columbia. Deductibles for UM property-damage coverage range from zero to $300, depending on the circumstance of the accident, your particular coverage, and your insurer.

If you have either of these uninsured motorist coverages and have been hit by a person driving without insurance you can make a claim with your insurance provider. To find out the limits of your UMBI or UMPD coverages you would need to read through the terms of your policy and speak with your insurance agent.

For an auto insurance quote including uninsured motorist coverages click here.