Imagine this: You're driving safely in Georgia, following all the rules. Suddenly, another car runs a red light and hits you. You're hurt, your car is damaged, and then you find out the other driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover all the costs. That would be a really tough spot to be in, right?
 

Unfortunately, this happens more often than you might think. That's why Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage are so important to have on your auto insurance policy in Georgia. Let's break down why.
 

The Risk: Driving with Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers

Think about all the cars on the road in Georgia. While most drivers are responsible and have insurance, some don't. Others might have the minimum amount of insurance required by law, but that might not be enough to cover all the damage and injuries if they cause a serious accident.
 

If you get into an accident caused by someone who doesn't have insurance at all (an uninsured driver) or someone whose insurance doesn't cover all your expenses (an underinsured driver), you could be left paying a lot of money out of your own pocket for things like:

• Medical bills for yourself and your passengers.

• Lost wages if you can't work because of your injuries.

• Pain and suffering caused by the accident.

• Damage to your car.
   

This is where Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage comes in to help protect you.
 

What is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?

Uninsured Motorist coverage steps in to help pay for your injuries and damages if you're hit by a driver who doesn't have any insurance at all. It can help cover your medical bills, lost income, and even pain and suffering, up to the limits of your UM coverage.
 

What is Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage?

Underinsured Motorist coverage helps when the driver who caused the accident has some insurance, but it's not enough to cover all of your costs. Let's say their insurance pays up to $25,000, but your medical bills and other expenses are much higher. Your UIM coverage can help pay for the remaining costs, up to your UIM policy limits.
 

Why is This Coverage Important in Georgia?

While Georgia law requires drivers to have minimum levels of auto insurance, unfortunately, there are still drivers on the road who don't follow the law or whose coverage isn't sufficient. Having UM and UIM coverage provides an extra layer of protection for you and your family in case you're involved in an accident with one of these drivers.
 

What Does UM/UIM Coverage Actually Cover?

Generally, Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage can help pay for:

• Medical expenses: Doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, etc.

• Lost wages: If you can't work due to your injuries.

• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.  

• In some cases, even funeral expenses.
   

How Much UM/UIM Coverage Should You Have?

This is a question you should discuss with your insurance agent. However, a good rule of thumb is to consider getting UM and UIM coverage limits that are similar to your liability coverage limits. This can help ensure you have adequate protection in case of a serious accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
 

Protect Yourself on Georgia Roads

Driving in Georgia comes with many joys, but it also comes with risks. While you can't control whether other drivers have insurance, you can take steps to protect yourself financially. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage is a smart and important part of your auto insurance policy that can provide peace of mind knowing you're protected even if the other driver isn't adequately insured.
 

Want to learn more about Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage in Georgia and make sure you have the right protection? Contact us at 404.875.4700 today! We're happy to answer your questions and help you find the coverage that fits your needs.