You may be the safest driver on the road, but that does not guarantee that you won't be hit by a negligent driver. If you are struck by another vehicle, there is a possibility that the at-fault driver won't have auto insurance – this is an "uninsured motorist accident."

What if you're in an accident with one of these uninsured drivers? How are you supposed to pay for the damage to your vehicle, let alone your medical bills?

Saying 'Yes' to Uninsured Motorist Coverage

When you take out your auto insurance policy, you're going to have the option of buying "uninsured motorist" coverage. This additional coverage protects you in the event you are in an accident with another driver who does not have car insurance, and the accident was the other driver's fault.

If you are in an accident with an uninsured driver, it's generally no use trying to sue them. Drivers without car insurance don't usually have much money, so even if you did win the lawsuit, it'd be virtually impossible to collect an award. Instead, you're better off making a claim against your own insurance carrier up to the limit of your uninsured carrier coverage.

Most states require that insurance companies offer uninsured motorist coverage when people take out policies. Usually, if someone does not want it they have to reject it in writing. So, make sure you always say "yes" to uninsured motorist coverage.

Reaping the Benefits of UIM Coverage

The benefits of getting uninsured motorist coverage are clear: If you're hit by an uninsured driver, you'll still be covered. You may think that you'll never be in an accident with an uninsured driver since almost every state requires drivers to have car insurance, but there are still plenty of uninsured drivers on the roads and they do get into car accidents.

Were you in an accident with an uninsured driver? Scroll through our directory to get in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer!