Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, especially when the other driver involved is either underinsured or worse, uninsured. As an experienced Oak Creek car accident lawyer, I’ve witnessed the devastating financial impact of such situations. Without UM and UIM coverage, you could be left to deal with injuries and damages without adequate recourse through the other party’s insurance. This underscores the critical importance of understanding and having these coverages in your auto insurance policy.
In Wisconsin, having insurance is a legal requirement for drivers. However, not every driver complies, and accidents involving uninsured drivers are not uncommon. Even if a driver has insurance, the minimum liability coverage required by law may not be enough to cover all the damages and medical expenses in a serious crash. This is where UM and UIM coverage play a vital role, stepping in to protect you against such situations.
Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of auto insurance designed to protect you financially if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have any auto insurance. This coverage steps in to cover damages for injuries to you and your passengers up to the limits of your policy.
Underinsured motorist coverage is activated when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover all of your medical expenses and other losses. UIM coverage will cover the difference between what the at-fault driver’s insurance will pay and what is needed, up to the limits of your own policy.
Having both UM and UIM coverage is not just a precaution; it’s a layer of protection. These coverages can help ensure that you and your passengers receive the necessary financial support for recovery, regardless of the other driver’s insurance status. Here’s why these coverages are indispensable:
In Wisconsin, UM coverage is mandatory. Every auto insurance policy must include uninsured motorist coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury. However, UIM coverage is optional. Given the potentially high costs of medical treatment and other damages following a severe accident, it is strongly recommended that drivers not purchase UIM coverage in addition to considering buying UM coverage that exceeds the minimum requirements.
When selecting your UM and UIM coverage limits, consider the following:
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage should not be seen as just optional add-ons to your auto insurance policy, but essential components that provide critical financial protection should you find yourself in an accident with a driver who is improperly insured. Ensuring that you have adequate UM and UIM coverage is not just about complying with state laws—it’s about protecting yourself, your family, and your future. By understanding and choosing the right coverage, you can empower yourself to navigate the aftermath of a car accident with confidence.
Immediately after the accident, prioritize safety and medical attention. Then, contact the police to file a report..
Yes, most uninsured motorist coverage in Wisconsin does cover injuries resulting from hit-and-run accidents, provided you report the accident promptly, and there is physical contact between the vehicles.
No, underinsured motorist coverage is not mandatory in Wisconsin, but it is highly recommended to protect yourself against drivers who do not have adequate insurance.
Wisconsin law does not generally allow the stacking of UM or UIM coverages. This means you cannot combine limits across multiple vehicles to increase the amount of coverage available for a single claim.
If you’re an Oak Creek resident or live anywhere in Milwaukee or the state of Wisconsin and are seeking advice on how to handle an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, do not hesitate to contact us at Martin Law Office, S.C. Our experienced team is here to help you understand your rights and options under Wisconsin law. Contact our Oak Creek car accident lawyers at Martin Law Office, S.C. by calling 414-856-4010 to receive your free consultation. Let us help you ensure that your valuable legal rights are fully protected.
