Uninsured motorist coverage is required by law and is usually designated on the face page of an automobile policy by the letter “U” or “UM”.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is available to all members of a household, including minor children, and does not require an automobile driver or passenger to be eligible.

When Does An Uninsured Motorist Policy Apply?

Uninsured motorist vehicle coverage applies to anyone who is injured by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured. Underinsured motorist coverage only applies if the other driver’s liability limits are lower than your uninsured coverage limits.

What Losses Are Covered?
Uninsured motorist coverage is intended to compensate for both financial and non-financial losses caused by an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver. Financial losses include medical expenses, income or earnings, and out-of-pocket expenses. Non-financial damages include loss of ability to enjoy or engage in certain activities, pain and suffering, and other subjective losses. Compensation is determined by the severity of the injury, whether it fully heals, what kinds of treatment are necessary, and how much time is required to achieve an optimum recovery.

How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Must My Insurance Company Offer Me?
Insurance companies must issue an uninsured motorist policy in a minimum amount of $30,000 per person/$50,000.00 aggregate, regardless of the fact that you may be purchasing a higher liability policy. However, many insurance companies will allow you to purchase uninsured motorist benefits in an amount equal to your liability policy.

How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do I Need?
No prudent person should have less than $100,000 per person / $300,000 aggregate of UM protection, and if they can afford it, they should obtain even higher limits.

STATISTICS: CALIFORNIA UNINSURED DRIVERS
Young drivers are the most likely to be uninsured or underinsured, making it important to purchase the maximum coverage available. Contact the Pacific Coast Injury Law Center for assistance.