I have previously written about the multiple types and levels of coverage available when purchasing auto insurance and how this can be very confusing for the consumer.  Most people simply do not take the time to fully digest, understand and appreciate their options before purchasing an auto insurance policy.  However, it is vital to understand that the decisions made when purchasing a policy are very likely to have a significant effect on your ability to recover in the event that you are injured in an accident.

One of the most important decisions you will need to make is whether or not to purchase Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage.  Although it will cost some extra money, I would strongly recommend that you elect these coverages, and here’s why.  Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage are designed to protect you in the event that you are injured in an accident caused by a driver that is either uninsured or carrying a minimal amount of insurance.   In a vast majority of motor vehicle cases, your recovery will be limited to the amount of insurance that the other driver is carrying.  If the other driver is carrying the minimum amount of insurance required in Pennsylvania, your recovery may be limited to $15,000 regardless of the severity of your injuries.  Worse yet, if the other driver is uninsured, you may be entirely precluded from recovery! 

Unfortunately, this happens far more often than you would think.  In the legal profession, we call these situations “coverage casualties.”  The best way to be sure that you don’t become a “coverage casualty” is to protect yourself by purchasing Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage which will allow you to make a claim under your own insurance policy in these situations.  After all, why would you want to rely upon the fact that an unknown driver has purchased adequate insurance to compensate you for your injuries?

If you or someone you know has any questions regarding Underinsured and/or Uninsured Coverage or are in the market for auto insurance give me a call at (267)907-9605 for a free consultation.