Picture this: you’re driving home after work when another car runs a red light and slams into you. Your car is totaled, and you’re injured. Then you find out the other driver doesn’t have insurance. Suddenly, you’re left wondering—who’s going to pay for all of this?
That’s where uninsured motorist coverage (often called UM coverage) comes in. While it’s technically an “optional” add-on in many states, it can be one of the most important protections you carry on your auto policy.
The Reality: Many Drivers Don’t Have Insurance
Even though auto insurance is legally required in almost every state, not everyone follows the rules. According to the Insurance Research Council, about 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. is uninsured—and in some states, the number is much higher.
In Mississippi, nearly 30% of drivers are uninsured.
In Michigan, Tennessee, and Florida, more than 20% are uninsured.
Even in states with stricter enforcement, uninsured drivers are still on the road.
This means that every time you drive, there’s a real chance the person who hits you won’t have coverage.
What Uninsured Motorist Coverage Does
Uninsured motorist coverage steps in to protect you when the at-fault driver can’t. It generally comes in two forms:
UM Bodily Injury (UMBI): Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you’re injured by an uninsured driver.
UM Property Damage (UMPD): Helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle if the uninsured driver damages it.
Some states require UM coverage, while others make it optional. Even if it’s not mandatory, it’s worth considering seriously.
Why Relying on the Other Driver Isn’t Enough
If an uninsured driver causes an accident, you could try to sue them—but in most cases, people without insurance don’t have the assets to pay damages. That leaves you paying medical bills and car repairs out of pocket.
UM coverage takes away that risk. Instead of hoping the other driver is insured, you know your own policy has you covered.
The Difference Between Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
It’s also worth mentioning underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). This applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover all your damages. For example:
The other driver has $25,000 in liability coverage.
Your medical bills are $50,000.
Their insurance pays $25,000, and your UIM coverage can help with the remaining $25,000.
Many insurers bundle UM and UIM together, giving you broader protection.
Why UM Coverage Matters More in 2025
With rising medical and repair costs, the risks of being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver are higher than ever. A single hospital visit can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and car repair bills are climbing due to advanced technology in vehicles.
Even if you have health insurance, UM coverage can help pay for things like lost income or long-term recovery expenses that health insurance doesn’t cover.
The Pros of Adding UM Coverage
Peace of Mind: You don’t have to worry about who’s paying if the other driver has no insurance.
Affordable Add-On: UM coverage typically costs far less than collision or comprehensive.
Covers Gaps: Protects expenses that health insurance and basic auto policies may not.
Works Nationwide: Useful even when traveling through states with high rates of uninsured drivers.
The Cons (and Why They’re Manageable)
Extra Premium: It does raise your monthly payment, but usually only slightly.
State Variations: Not every state allows property damage UM coverage, so limits may vary.
Duplicate Coverage Concerns: Some drivers feel their health insurance already covers them, but UM adds broader financial protection.
Real-World Example
Taylor is rear-ended at an intersection by a driver who has no insurance. Taylor suffers injuries requiring surgery, missing six weeks of work.
Medical bills: $45,000
Lost wages: $8,000
Car damage: $10,000
Without UM coverage, Taylor would need to rely on health insurance (which may not cover lost wages or car damage) or pay out of pocket. With UM coverage, her auto policy handles medical expenses, lost income, and the car repair—saving her from financial disaster.
Tips for Adding the Right Amount of UM Coverage
Match Your Liability Limits: Many experts recommend matching your UM coverage to the same limits as your liability coverage.
Bundle UM and UIM: If offered, choose both to protect against uninsured and underinsured drivers.
Check State Laws: Some states automatically include UM; in others, you must opt in.
Talk to Your Agent: Ask for quotes with and without UM to see how little extra it costs.
Final Thoughts
Uninsured motorist coverage is one of those optional add-ons that often gets overlooked—until you need it. With millions of uninsured drivers on the road and rising accident costs, it’s more important than ever to have that safety net in place.
For just a few extra dollars a month, UM coverage ensures that you and your family are protected, no matter who’s behind the other wheel.
