Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, commonly known as UM/UIM coverage, is an important aspect of auto insurance that protects you in the event of an accident caused by a driver who either doesn’t have insurance or has insufficient coverage. However, whether it is mandatory in your state depends on the laws and regulations of that specific state.
States where UM/UIM coverage is mandatory
In some states, UM/UIM coverage is mandatory, meaning that all drivers are required by law to carry this type of coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. These states recognize the importance of protecting drivers from potential financial losses caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists. If you reside in one of these states, you must include UM/UIM coverage in your policy.
- Connecticut
- District of Columbia
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia
On the other hand, there are states where UM/UIM coverage is not mandatory but rather optional. However, accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers can lead to significant expenses, and having UM/UIM coverage can help protect you from these unexpected expenses.
To determine whether UM/UIM coverage is mandatory in your state, it is important to talk to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or insurance regulatory agency. They will provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding the insurance requirements in your state.
Conclusion
While UM/UIM coverage is mandatory in some states, it may be optional in others. Regardless of the legal requirements, it is strongly advisable to consider adding this coverage to your auto insurance policy to safeguard yourself against potential financial hardships resulting from accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers.
