Although most states legally require all persons operating a vehicle to have car insurance, it is an unfortunate statistic that approximately one in seven motorists nonetheless drive uninsured.
As a result, many car insurance companies include uninsured motorist coverage in their policies. If you're in a collision with an uninsured driver, this clause in your policy may cover medical expenses incurred, income you lose if you're unable to return to work, and other less tangible damages like pain and suffering. Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage covers bodily injury caused by a hit and run accident.
Some states have uninsured motorist property damage coverage, which covers repairs to your vehicle and other property, but not in our law firm's home states of Kansas and Missouri. In order to get reimbursed for your property damage in Missouri and Kansas, you have to have comprehensive and/or collision coverage.
Many states mandate that each car insurance policy offer a certain minimum coverage that includes uninsured motorist coverage, whereas other states don't. In Kansas and Missouri, the required minimum uninsured motorist coverage is $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident. This coverage is included in all car insurance policies offered in these states and doesn't need to be purchased in addition to the insurance you already have.
While it may seem unfair to have to pay even a dime to counteract drivers who break the law by driving without insurance, you will be thankful for the coverage if you're ever the victim of a hit and run or in an accident with an uninsured motorist.
Without it, you'd be forced to pay out of pocket for all repairs and/or medical expenses you incur. With it, you pay only whatever the required deductible may be, and the insurance company covers the remainder.
If you're injured in an accident with an uninsured driver, our office can help. Call us today at 816-842-7100 to speak with an attorney that will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Or you can click here to email us and schedule your free consultation.