Should I Get Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You live in a state where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is mandatory or strongly recommended, and a significant portion of drivers on the road are uninsured, increasing the likelihood of an accident without a liable party.
• Good fit: You have limited medical or disability benefits from other sources (e.g., no personal health insurance, low health plan deductible) and want a safety net to cover medical expenses and lost wages after a collision with an uninsured driver.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your auto policy already includes robust personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage that meets or exceeds your typical medical expense needs, making additional UM coverage redundant.
• Warning sign: You drive infrequently, keep a low mileage vehicle, and the incremental premium for UM coverage represents a disproportionate cost relative to the low probability of needing it.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Provides compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain‑and‑suffering when the at‑fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
• Often includes coverage for hit‑and‑run incidents, giving you a remedy even when the responsible party cannot be identified.

Cons

• Adds to your overall auto insurance premium, sometimes significantly, especially in states where UM coverage is optional.
• May duplicate benefits you already have through health insurance, PIP, or employer disability plans, leading to unnecessary expense.

Decision Checklist

• Do I live in a state where uninsured motorists are common and where UM coverage is optional or required?
• Do my existing health, disability, or personal injury protection policies already cover most medical and wage‑loss expenses?
• Can I afford the additional premium without compromising other essential coverage?

Alternatives to Consider

If UM coverage feels excessive, explore increasing your personal injury protection limits, adding a medical payments endorsement, or investing in a supplemental health insurance plan that specifically addresses accident‑related costs. In some cases, a higher deductible on your liability policy can free up budget for a targeted medical expense rider.

Final Recommendation

Uninsured motorist coverage is worth adding if you lack sufficient medical or wage‑loss protection and you drive in an area with a high rate of uninsured drivers. If you already have strong PIP or health coverage, the extra cost may not be justified. Always review your entire insurance portfolio and consult a licensed insurance professional to ensure the decision fits your financial situation and local regulations.