Kentucky roads can be unpredictable. The carelessness of another motorist can put even the most careful motorists in harm’s way.
But what if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or if their coverage is insufficient to cover your damages? This can leave you facing financial hardship from medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage provides financial support while you recover from the accident.
Kentucky’s Insurance Laws and Statutes
Kentucky law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance, including:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person,
- $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and
- $10,000 for property damage.
However, these amounts may not cover medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs from a severe accident. This is where UM and UIM bridge the gap.
Kentucky law requires insurers to offer UM coverage to all policyholders, even though you can decline it in writing. Drivers in Kentucky are not required to have UIM and UM insurance, but the coverage provides many benefits.
Understanding UM/UIM Coverage in Kentucky
Not all drivers on the road are responsible when it comes to insurance. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects against financial losses resulting from accidents with drivers who do not have proper insurance.
- Uninsured motorist coverage—acts as your safety net when the at-fault driver has no insurance. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and car repairs, preventing financial devastation.
- Underinsured motorist coverage—steps in when the at-fault driver has some insurance, but the limits are too low to compensate you fully. UIM pays the difference between their limited coverage and your actual costs.
Consider UM/UIM as a two-tiered security system for your financial well-being.
The Difference Between UM and UIM
UM Protects You from the Completely Uninsured
Imagine you’re struck by a driver who speeds through a red light and has no insurance. Thankfully, you escaped serious injury. However, medical bills and car repairs can add up quickly. UM coverage steps in to cover these expenses.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Kentucky Bridges the Gap
In this case, the at-fault driver has minimum required insurance, but their coverage falls far short of covering your extensive medical bills. UIM coverage bridges the gap between the at-fault driver’s limited coverage and your actual costs.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Worth It?
While UM/UIM coverage isn’t mandatory in Kentucky, it’s a wise investment for several reasons:
- Prevalence of Uninsured Drivers. Statistics show a concerning reality – over 15% of Kentucky drivers are uninsured.
- Peace of Mind. UM/UIM acts as a financial safety net, protecting you from the burden of medical bills and lost wages due to an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
Kentucky’s comparative negligence system still allows you to file a UM/UIM claim even if you’re partially at fault for the accident. Your recovery amount might be reduced based on your contribution to the accident.
How to File a UM/UIM Claim in Kentucky
If you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in Kentucky, follow these steps to file a UM/UIM claim:
- Report the Accident. Notify your insurance company immediately.
- Gather Evidence. Collect all evidence and documents related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- File the Claim. Submit your UM or UIM claim with supporting documentation.
- Cooperate with Your Insurer. Provide all requested information promptly to expedite the process.
UM/UIM claims can be complex. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure you receive fair compensation by negotiating with your insurance company.
Don’t Let Uninsured Motorists Leave You High and Dry
The Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher has over 30 years of experience and a proven track record helping Kentucky residents with personal injury cases, including car insurance claims. With hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation received for our clients, our team’s expertise ensures you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your car accident claim, and let us seek justice for you.