Since the novel coronavirus pandemic came to the United States, our lives have been a little different, wouldn’t you agree? Millions lost their lives, and many more became infected with COVID-19. The economy came to a standstill as businesses were ordered shut, and millions of employees lost their jobs.
If there’s good news, it’s that we’re starting to emerge from the ashes. State and local governments are easing restrictions, businesses are reopening, and many employees are returning to work.
Nevertheless, the damage remains. Many Americans who were impacted by the effects of the pandemic lost significant income. As a result, many are struggling to pay for their homes, utilities, vehicles, and other expenses, let alone pay for auto insurance.
And that means many motorists will be taking to the streets in the coming months without car insurance. What does that mean for you? How can you protect yourself and your family?
If you are financially able, we suggest you review your auto insurance with your insurer and make sure you have sufficient uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage in the event of a serious accident.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Indiana?
Indiana requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage for the following amounts:
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury: Minimum coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured motorist property damage: Minimum coverage of $25,000 per accident
- Underinsured motorist bodily injury: Minimum of $50,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
While the minimum coverage amounts may seem like a lot, it is unlikely to be enough coverage to adequately compensate you for your losses, particularly if you suffer serious injuries.
Some insurers suggest that you have at least $100,000 of UM bodily injury coverage per person. However, every accident has unique circumstances, and that’s why it’s so important you review your policy with your insurer to ensure your UM/UIM coverage is sufficient.
What Does UM/UIM Cover?
Generally, UM/UIM covers the following damages:
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
In most cases, UM/UIM coverage applies to the primary policyholder, but also any other vehicle occupants. Your coverage may even apply to your immediate family as well. Speak with your insurer to confirm who is covered under your UM/UIM coverage.
Get Help From Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys in Indiana
If you’re involved in an accident in which an uninsured or underinsured motorist is at fault, the claims issues can be very complex. Don’t go it alone. Reach out to an experienced Indiana auto accident attorney at Tanzillo Stassin and Babcock who knows how to navigate the system and handle your claim.
Contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. We’ll answer any questions you may have and lay out the best course of action for favorable results. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we successfully obtain the financial compensation you deserve.
