Most New Jersey drivers carry auto insurance, but not everyone has enough coverage to pay for the injuries they cause. Some drivers carry only the minimum required insurance, while others drive without any coverage at all. When a serious accident happens, many injured people worry that they won't be able to recover the compensation they need.
Fortunately, your own auto insurance policy may provide another layer of protection. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, commonly known as UM/UIM coverage, can help pay for losses when the at-fault driver's insurance isn't enough. Understanding how this coverage works can make a significant difference after an accident.
What Does UM/UIM Coverage Pay For?
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is designed to protect you when another driver's insurance cannot fully compensate you for your injuries.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage generally applies when the driver who caused the accident has no auto insurance or when a hit-and-run driver cannot be identified.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits aren't enough to cover the full extent of your damages.
Depending on your policy, UM/UIM coverage may help compensate you for the following losses. All UM/UIM benefits are subject to your policy limits and the terms of your coverage selection:
- Medical expenses that exceed available insurance benefits
- Future medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, when permitted under your policy and New Jersey law
It's important to remember that every insurance policy is different. The amount of protection available depends on the coverage you selected when purchasing your policy.
Common Situations Where Your Coverage May Apply
Many people don't realize they may need their own insurance until after an accident.
One common example is a hit-and-run accident. If another driver leaves the scene and cannot be identified, your uninsured motorist coverage may provide an avenue for recovering compensation. Reporting the accident promptly and preserving evidence can be critical in these cases.
Another frequent situation involves a driver who carries only minimal insurance. If your injuries require extensive medical treatment or keep you out of work, the at-fault driver's policy may not be enough to cover your losses. When your own policy includes underinsured motorist coverage, it may help bridge that gap.
UM coverage may also apply when the at-fault driver simply has no insurance. While recovering compensation directly from an uninsured driver is often difficult, your own policy may provide valuable protection if you've elected this coverage.
These claims can become even more complicated when multiple vehicles are involved or several injured people are seeking compensation from the same insurance policy.
Why UM/UIM Claims Can Be Complicated
Although UM/UIM coverage is part of your own insurance policy, that doesn't always make the claims process simple.
Insurance companies still evaluate who was at fault, whether your injuries are related to the accident, and the value of your claim. They may request extensive medical records, review your treatment history, or dispute the amount of compensation you are seeking.
There are also important policy requirements and deadlines that can affect your claim. Missing a reporting deadline or overlooking certain policy conditions could jeopardize your ability to recover benefits.
Because these claims often involve multiple insurance policies, medical records, and detailed negotiations, many accident victims find it helpful to work with an attorney who understands New Jersey's insurance laws and can help protect their interests throughout the process.
Attorney Friedman's Personalized Approach
At the Law Offices of Mitchell R. Friedman, P.C., every case begins with understanding the client's unique situation. From the firm's West Orange office, Attorney Friedman has spent decades helping injured people throughout Essex County and surrounding communities pursue the compensation they deserve after serious motor vehicle accidents.
When UM or UIM coverage may be available, the firm carefully reviews the insurance policies involved, investigates how the accident occurred, gathers the medical documentation needed to support the claim, and communicates directly with the insurance companies throughout the process.
Rather than treating clients like case numbers, Attorney Friedman believes in providing personal attention from start to finish. Clients can communicate by phone, email, or virtual meeting, and when injuries make travel difficult, the firm can meet clients at home, at work, or in the hospital.
The goal is simple. Help clients understand their options, protect their rights, and pursue every available source of compensation under New Jersey law.
Get Answers During a Free Consultation
An accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can leave you wondering how you'll pay for medical bills, lost income, and other unexpected expenses. Fortunately, your own insurance policy may provide protection that many drivers don't realize they have.
If you've been injured in a car or truck accident in Essex County or anywhere in North Jersey, the Law Offices of Mitchell R. Friedman, P.C. can review your insurance coverage, explain your legal options, and help you determine the best path forward. Contact the firm's West Orange office today to schedule a free consultation and learn how experienced, personalized legal representation can help protect your future.