When is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage helpful?

UM/UIM coverage can be critical in several common scenarios:

Hit-and-run accidents: When the at-fault driver flees the scene, your UM coverage may be the only available source of compensation. Only about 10% of hit-and-run drivers are ever identified.

No-contact accidents: If another driver runs you off the road without making contact with your vehicle, their insurance typically won’t apply. UM coverage can fill that gap.

Underinsured drivers: California only requires $30,000/$60,000 in liability coverage, which may not come close to covering serious injuries. UIM coverage pays the difference between the at-fault driver’s policy limits and your actual damages.

Accidents with unlicensed or uninsured drivers: Drivers without a license often lack insurance as well. UM coverage protects you in these situations.

We strongly encourage all California drivers to carry UM/UIM limits that match their liability limits.