Unfortunately, the car crash itself is only half the battle. The next tragic phase is when victims work on recovering damages from the at-fault driver for their injuries and other losses.
However, not all drivers have insurance to pay for the injured party’s mounting bills. Thus, uninsured motorist coverage aims to resolve this dilemma.
Importance of uninsured motorist coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage pays for victims’ needs when the driver who hit them does not have insurance. Depending on the policy, it can cover bodily injuries or property damage.
Aside from a few exemptions, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory in Oregon. Aside from liability insurance and personal injury protection, drivers must have uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash.
Thus, drivers must comply with their legal duties and consider how uninsured motorist coverage can protect them:
- Prevents an unanticipated financial fallout
- Covers long-term medical care beyond what health insurance typically pays for
- Often applies during hit-and-run accidents, or when an at-fault driver flees the scene and authorities cannot track them
Further, uninsured motorist coverage can go hand in hand with underinsured coverage. “Underinsured” means that it pays for victims’ injuries or damages when the liable driver does not have sufficient insurance for all costs. In Oregon, this is optional.
An extra layer of security can save lives
If drivers get liability insurance as protection if they caused the collision, it only makes sense if they also get extra security when they are the victims. After all, the additional cost means having peace of mind on the road, knowing they and their loved ones would not face overwhelming financial odds after enduring a tragedy. If the nuances of each insurance coverage seem confusing, it will be wise if drivers ask their legal counsel for guidance. Also, they can help ensure a fair settlement from insurance adjusters.