Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Help in an Accident in Indiana?

You may be wondering, how does uninsured motorist coverage help in an accident in Indiana?

Uninsured motorist liability coverage is a crucial part of Indiana auto insurance that protects Indiana drivers when they’re in a car accident caused by an uninsured driver in Indiana.

Uninsured and underinsured coverage can be a financial lifesaver for the injured person and loved ones left behind by a fatal car crash.

This article explains how coverage works in Indiana, what the minimum liability coverage is, what it can be used for, and how it protects those involved in automobile accidents.

What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is part of your insurance policy. It provides financial damages if you’re in a car accident with an uninsured driver in Indiana, covering medical care, lost pay, and other damages.

In Indiana, it’s required in every auto insurance policy unless the auto insurance policyholder rejects it in writing.

Underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) kicks in when the at-fault driver has insurance for motor vehicles, but their insurance policy limits are too low to cover all damages.

Both types of insurance policies offer essential financial protection in case of serious bodily injury in a car accident.

Why Is Getting Uninsured Motorist Coverage from Your Insurance Company Important?

Indiana has a high number of uninsured motorists—about 16%. This uninsured coverage means there’s a significant chance of being in a car accident with an uninsured driver.

Without enough insurance, you would have to pay expenses out of pocket.

Imagine driving home from work and getting hit by an uninsured driver. Without your car insurance UM coverage, you would be responsible for bodily injury, medical bills, vehicle repairs, and more.

UM bodily injury coverage ensures your car insurance company covers these costs.

How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works in Indiana

If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist liability insurance coverage helps cover your expenses.

Here’s how it works:

Report the Accident: Inform the police and your insurance company.
File a Claim: Provide necessary documentation, like the police report and medical bills.
Claim Processing: Your insurance company investigates the car accident claim and determines the compensation amount.
Receive Compensation: Once approved, you’ll receive money for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Gather all necessary documentation for a smooth claim process, including the police report, medical records, and repair estimates.

Call Crossen’s experienced Indiana car accident attorneys today at 317-401-8626 to discuss your legal options. We understand the challenges you face and are here to offer compassionate support and dedicated legal counsel.

Benefits of Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured and underinsured coverage offers several benefits and additional coverage, including liability insurance and financial protection for:

Medical bills: Covers past and future medical expenses from the accident, including physical rehabilitation and counseling.
Lost wages: Compensates for unearned wages if you’re unable to work due to injuries or are no longer able to work after the accident.
Property losses: Pays for repairs or replacement of the vehicle and contents that were in the automobile accident.
Pain and suffering: In some cases, may also cover pain and suffering resulting from the accident.

Making sure your insurance policy includes both uninsured and underinsured coverage provides peace of mind, knowing you’re protected even if the other driver is uninsured.

What Does Uninsured Motorist Car Insurance Coverage Include?

Uninsured motorist insurance coverage also typically includes:

Bodily Injury Coverage: Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage: Covers vehicle repairs or replacement.
Additional: Some policies may cover rental cars or related expenses.

Consider these factors when choosing which insurance policy includes uninsured motorist insurance coverage:

Coverage Limits: Opt for higher limits to ensure adequate protection.
Policy Details: Understand what is covered and any exclusions.
Comparison: Compare different policies to find the best coverage for your needs.

Experts recommend having uninsured motorist coverage limits that match your liability coverage limits for a car accident claim full protection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Indiana

Is uninsured motorist coverage mandatory in Indiana? Yes, Indiana requires that each policy covers UIM unless explicitly rejected in writing by the policyholder.

What is the minimum coverage required? $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for injury, and $10,000 for property damage.

How much does uninsured motorist coverage cost? It varies but is generally affordable and worth the investment when compared to the cost of the auto policy.

Isn’t it illegal to drive without minimum liability insurance? Yes, all motorists caught without it will lose driving privileges for a minimum of 90 days, be fined, and have the violation listed on their BMV record.

Can I reject UM coverage in Indiana? Yes, in writing, but it is highly discouraged.

What happens if the at-fault driver is underinsured? Underinsured motorist coverage will typically cover the difference between the at-fault driver’s insurance property and bodily injury limits and your total damages.

How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Help in an Accident in Indiana? Uninsured motorist coverage in Indiana helps cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if you’re in an accident caused by an uninsured driver.

Filing a Claim: Steps to Take After an Accident

If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights:

Ensure safety: Your first priority is safety. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call emergency services immediately and administer first aid if you can and it’s necessary.
Call the police: Report the accident to the police, regardless of the severity of the collision. A police report is a crucial piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim.
Exchange information: Collect the contact and vehicle details of the other driver. This includes their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle make and model, and license plate number.
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles, visible damages, road conditions, traffic signs, and relevant landmarks.
Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
Contact a personal injury attorney: Securing legal advice immediately is crucial. An experienced attorney will preserve crucial evidence, navigate the claims process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

An experienced Indiana car accident attorney is helpful in determining liability in car accidents and attempting to recover full compensation for your personal injury and damages.

Contact Crossen Law Firm for Your Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Accident Case

So, how does uninsured motorist coverage help in an accident in Indiana? You can contact us at any time and we will answer all of your questions.

Crossen Indiana Law Firm knows recovering from a hit-and-run accident or when hit by an uninsured driver is exhausting.

We can help you seek compensation under Indiana law for medical bills, unearned wages, accident property damage, and other losses you’ve suffered.

After accidents caused by underinsured motorists, calling a personal injury immediately is an essential step to protect your rights and secure the damages you deserve.

Leveraging extensive research and proven strategies, we confidently navigate through the intricacies of the law to advocate effectively on your behalf. Call Crossen Law today at 317-401-8626 for a free case evaluation and let us fight for your rights so you can focus on healing.