Why Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Insurance on My Auto Policy?
It’s a scenario no driver wants to face: You’re hit by another car, only to discover the driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages.
Unfortunately, it happens more often than you might think—especially in Alabama. That’s why Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Insurance is one of the most important parts of your auto policy, even though many drivers don’t understand what it covers—or worse, opt out of it completely.
At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we’ve represented countless clients who learned the value of UM coverage the hard way. Here’s what you need to know about why this coverage matters, and how it can protect you and your family.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Insurance?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if you’re injured in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have car insurance.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage kicks in if the other driver has insurance—but not enough to pay for all your damages.
Together, UM/UIM insurance provides a critical safety net in a world where 1 in 8 drivers nationwide (and even more in some areas) are uninsured.
Is It Required in Alabama?
No, UM/UIM insurance is not required in Alabama—but insurers must offer it to you, and you must reject it in writing if you don’t want it.
Many people waive this coverage to save a few dollars on their premiums. But in doing so, they take on enormous financial risk if hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
What Does UM/UIM Insurance Cover?
Depending on your policy, UM/UIM coverage can help pay for:
Medical expenses for you and your passengers
Lost income due to injury
Pain and suffering
Funeral costs
Property damage (if you have UMPD—Uninsured Motorist Property Damage)
It protects you even if you're a pedestrian, on a bicycle, or riding with someone else when the crash occurs.
Real-World Scenario: Why It Matters
Imagine you’re rear-ended by a driver who ran a red light. You’re taken to the hospital with a broken leg. The other driver has no insurance. Without UM coverage, you could be left:
Paying out of pocket for your injuries
Unable to recover lost wages
Stuck without any realistic legal recovery
With UM coverage, your own insurance steps in to cover your losses—even when the at-fault party can't.
What If the Other Driver Has Minimum Coverage?
Alabama’s minimum liability limits are $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury. In serious accidents, this amount often doesn’t come close to covering actual damages.
Your Underinsured Motorist coverage can fill that gap.
How Much Coverage Should I Get?
We recommend purchasing at least as much UM/UIM coverage as you carry in liability coverage—often $100,000 or more.
The cost is typically low, especially compared to the potential out-of-pocket expenses if you’re injured in a crash.
Should I Hire a Lawyer If I Use My Own UM Coverage?
Yes. Even though you’re dealing with your own insurance company, they may still:
Minimize your payout
Dispute the value of your claim
Delay resolution
At Nelson, Bryan, and Cross, we fight for policyholders across Alabama to ensure they receive the full compensation they’re owed under their policy.
Don’t Waive Your Rights—Protect Yourself Before a Crash Happens
The road is unpredictable, but your financial protection doesn’t have to be. Before the unthinkable happens, make sure your auto policy includes adequate UM/UIM coverage.
If you’ve already been injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver—or if your own insurance company is making things difficult—we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Alabama personal injury attorney.
