If you’re in an accident with a negligent driver, getting the compensation you deserve shouldn’t rely on the driver’s insurance coverage. Utah drivers are fortunate to have protection in instances like this. An uninsured/underinsured driver accident does not automatically mean you’ve run out of options. Most Utah car insurance policies include protection against uninsured and underinsured drivers; however, most drivers are unaware of this protection until they need it. An attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries caused by a negligent driver.
Uninsured Versus Underinsured Motorist Insurance
Each of these insurance types provides protection for negligent drivers; there are differences.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance provides protection when the at-fault driver has no insurance or in hit-and-run situations. Utah requires insurance companies to provide this coverage as well, and the policyholder may waive it in writing.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) insurance covers instances in which the policy limits of the at-fault driver do not cover your injuries. After the other driver’s policy limits are exhausted, your UIM insurance provides coverage. However, there is one important condition: you must fully exhaust the other driver’s policy prior to a UIM claim.
Consequences of Utah’s Recent Changes in Coverage Levels
Effective January 1, 2025, Utah has increased its minimum liability insurance coverage from $25,000/$65,000/$15,000 to $30,000/$65,000/$25,000 with House Bill 113 (2023). These changes also addressed the minimum coverage limits for UM/UIM policies.
Minimum coverage almost never covers actual expenses due to an injury. Get out your calculator and think about the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and the cost of long-term rehabilitation. Outside of your policy limits, those often far exceed them. A reputable Murray personal injury attorney can help you avoid a very common outcome of claims.
What a UM or UIM Claim Covers
A negligent driver’s insurance policy may cover your claim if:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost income during recovery
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage caused by an uninsured motorist (Utah Code 31A-22-305.5)
Utah subjects claims for UM/UIM to a three-year time limit. A strong case and an unreasonably long wait both result in forfeiture of your right to claim damages.
Protecting Your Claim from Day One
After a crash where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, report the incident and obtain medical treatment, even if you think you have no coverage. Many uninsured motorists (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) policies are waived by drivers without understanding what that means. The value of losses is significantly greater than the savings to most drivers. An attorney specializing in personal injury in Murray can review the policy and assess the value of your claim. Don’t let the insurance adjuster determine the value of your claim.
The Bottom Line
UM and UIM coverage occur when the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance to cover the cost of damages. If this is your circumstance, or that of your family, contact one of our Murray personal injury lawyers. A free consultation with a Murray personal injury attorney will help you understand your options and help you avoid the consequences of another person’s mistakes falling onto you financially.