What is UM/UIM Coverage, and Do I Need it?

When it comes to car accident claims, the insurance component is complicated enough, but the issue of coverage for uninsured and underinsured motorists can take things to the next level. Better understanding this form of insurance coverage, however, can help you better understand your best path forward. If another driver’s negligence leaves you injured in a car accident, don’t delay consulting with an experienced New Mexico car accident attorney. 

UM and UIM Coverage

Forbes describes uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) insurance policies as coverage that addresses policy holders’ losses (or legal damages) in the event that the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate coverage or doesn’t have car insurance at all. These policies can cover all the following:


  • Your medical expenses

  • Your lost earnings (if your injuries keep you off the job) 

  • Your pain and suffering

  • Property damage to your vehicle (in some states)


In some states that are known as no-fault states, every driver is required to carry UM/UIM coverage, and in these states, those who are injured in car accidents first file their claims – without regard to fault – with their own insurance providers.  In others, however, insurance providers are required to include UM/UIM coverage in their policies, and drivers can only reject the coverage if they do so in writing. In still other states, UM/UIM coverage is entirely optional. 

Why You Should Consider UM/UIM Coverage

If you live in a state that doesn’t require you to carry UM/UIM coverage, there are some important reasons why you should consider doing so, including:


  • UM/UIM coverage will take care of your related copays and out-of-pocket expenses that your health insurance will charge if it covers the cost of treatment for the injuries you incur in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence. 

  • UM/UIM coverage addresses losses that your health insurance will not, including lost wages and your physical and emotional pain and suffering. 

  • Nationally, one out of every eight drivers is uninsured, but the percentage varies considerably from state to state. 

  • If you are injured by another driver’s negligence in a hit-and-run accident (in which he or she leaves the scene), you may have no other option for addressing the losses you experience if you do not carry UM/UIM coverage. 


It is generally in your best interest to carry UM/UIM insurance as a means of protecting yourself from the damages caused by underinsured and uninsured motorists.  

Seek the Professional Legal Guidance of an Experienced New Mexico Car Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured by a motorist who is underinsured or uninsured, the trusted New Mexico car accident attorneys at Salam & Associates have reserves of impressive experience successfully guiding car accident claims like yours toward optimal outcomes. For more information about how we can help, don’t put off contacting or calling us at (866) 640-8998 today.

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