As a responsible driver, it’s essential to have insurance coverage to protect yourself and others in the event of an accident. However, not all drivers carry insurance, which can leave you vulnerable if you’re in an accident with an uninsured motorist. That’s where uninsured motorist coverage comes in. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the uninsured coverage requirements by state, including what uninsured motorist coverage is, how it works, and the minimum coverage requirements for each state.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is an insurance policy that provides coverage if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages. It also provides coverage if you’re in a hit-and-run accident where the other driver flees the scene.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?
If you’re in an accident with an uninsured motorist, your uninsured motorist coverage will kick in to cover your damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and damages to your vehicle. The amount of coverage you have will depend on your policy limits and the minimum coverage requirements in your state.
Minimum Uninsured Motorist Coverage Requirements by State
Each state has its own minimum uninsured motorist coverage requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum requirements for each state:
- Alabama: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Alaska: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Arizona: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Arkansas: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- California: $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
- Colorado: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Connecticut: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Delaware: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- District of Columbia: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Florida: $10,000 per person, $20,000 per accident
- Georgia: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Hawaii: $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident
- Idaho: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Illinois: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Indiana: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Iowa: $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident
- Kansas: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Kentucky: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Louisiana: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Maine: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Maryland: $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident
- Massachusetts: $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident
- Michigan: $250,000 per person, $500,000 per accident
- Minnesota: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Mississippi: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Missouri: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Montana: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Nebraska: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- Nevada: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- New Hampshire: None required
- New Jersey: $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
- New Mexico: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- New York: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
- North Carolina: $30,000
FAQs
- Do I need uninsured motorist coverage if I already have liability insurance?
Yes, liability insurance covers the damages you cause to other people and their property. Uninsured motorist coverage, on the other hand, covers the damages to you and your property if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.
- Is uninsured motorist coverage required in every state?
No, not every state requires uninsured motorist coverage. However, it’s highly recommended to have this coverage in case you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.
- Can I add uninsured motorist coverage to my existing policy?
Yes, you can add uninsured motorist coverage to your existing policy. Contact your insurance provider to find out more information about adding this coverage.
- What happens if I’m in an accident with an uninsured driver and I don’t have uninsured motorist coverage?
If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver and you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll have to pay for the damages out of your own pocket.
- How can I find the best uninsured motorist coverage for me?
To find the best uninsured motorist coverage for you, you should compare quotes from multiple insurance providers. Make sure to consider the coverage limits, deductibles, and premiums when comparing quotes.
Conclusion
Uninsured motorist coverage is an important type of insurance that can protect you if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver. Each state has its own minimum coverage requirements, so it’s important to understand the requirements in your state. If you’re unsure about whether or not you need uninsured motorist coverage, speak to your insurance provider to find out more information. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect yourself and your property.