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Attorney Jonathan Esp discusses the importance of underinsured motorist coverage and how it can help protect you after an accident.
Many people assume that if they are injured in a car accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In reality, this is often not the case. Wisconsin drivers are only required to carry relatively low minimum insurance limits, and those limits are frequently not enough to fully compensate someone who has been seriously injured. This is where underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes extremely important.
Underinsured motorist coverage is insurance that you purchase on your own auto policy to protect yourself if the driver who caused the accident does not have enough insurance to cover your damages. For example, if your damages are $150,000 but the at-fault driver only has $50,000 in insurance coverage, your UIM coverage may provide additional compensation depending on your policy limits and language. In many serious injury cases, UIM coverage turns out to be the largest or only source of recovery.
UIM claims in Wisconsin can be complicated because insurance policies often contain reducing clauses and other provisions that affect how much the insurance company has to pay. There are also specific procedures that must be followed before accepting the at-fault driver’s policy limits, including notifying your own insurance company and allowing them to respond. If this process is not handled correctly, it can negatively affect your ability to recover under your UIM coverage.
If you were injured in a car accident in Wisconsin and believe the other driver may not have enough insurance, it is important to review your own auto policy and understand whether underinsured motorist coverage applies. In many cases, people do not realize how important this coverage is until after an accident happens.
Understanding your rights and options early in the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
At West & Dunn, we understand the challenges drivers face after an accident. Do not hesitate to contact our legal professionals online through our Contact Us page or by telephone at (608) 535-6420 for a consultation.
