Massachusetts roads are bustling havens for vehicles, with over 6.3 million registered cars cruising its highways and byways. While this vibrant traffic stream boosts the state's economy, it also carries a hidden risk: many uninsured and underinsured drivers navigate alongside responsible motorists. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 12.6% of Massachusetts drivers lacked car insurance in 2020, considerably higher than the national average of 8.5%. This staggering statistic underscores the crucial role of uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage in safeguarding drivers in the Bay State.

Understanding UM/UIM Coverage

UM/UIM coverage protects you and your passengers from financial devastation caused by car accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers. This vital protection kicks in when the at-fault driver's liability insurance policy either doesn't exist or isn't sufficient to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs.

Two branches of UM/UIM coverage exist in Massachusetts

  • Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering you incur if injured by an uninsured driver.

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): This covers repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle if hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

Why UM/UIM Coverage is Essential?

Massachusetts's high concentration of uninsured drivers makes UM/UIM coverage a near-necessity. Consider these compelling statistics:

  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data reveals that in 2019, one in 20 drivers nationwide involved in fatal crashes was uninsured.

  • A 2023 study by the Insurance Research Council found that the average cost of an accident with an uninsured driver was $18,872, a hefty sum that could cripple many families.

These numbers paint a stark picture of the financial hardships uninsured drivers can inflict. Without UM/UIM coverage, you could face substantial medical bills, lost income, and a damaged car while navigating the complex legal landscape of pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver.

Navigating the Legal Maze

While UM/UIM coverage offers invaluable protection, navigating claims and legal intricacies can be overwhelming. Here's where a skilled car accident lawyer becomes essential. An experienced attorney can expertly handle your case, ensuring you:

  • Understand your rights and coverage benefits under Massachusetts law.

  • Maximize your compensation by aggressively pursuing all available avenues.

  • Navigate complex legal paperwork and deadlines.

  • Protect your interests against insurance companies and aggressive attorneys representing the at-fault driver.

Investing in Peace of Mind

UM/UIM coverage is not just an insurance add-on; it's an investment in peace of mind. For a relatively small premium, you gain invaluable protection against the financial fallout of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Remember, the cost of not having this coverage can far outweigh the premium you pay.

What To Do

Contact your trusted insurance agent or a reputable car accident lawyer in Massachusetts today to discuss your specific needs and ensure you have adequate UM/UIM coverage. Don't let the statistics dictate your fate on the road. Take control and safeguard yourself and your loved ones with this vital protection.

 

Contact Our Massachusetts Car Accident Attorneys Today

We understand that going through an automobile accident can be an incredibly stressful experience. It's not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed and even downhearted during such times. Please know that you're not alone in this. Our Massachusetts Car Accident Attorneys can offer the support and expertise you need. Contact us online or call our Dedham, MA office directly at 781-251-0555 to schedule your free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Massachusettes and have offices in the Greater Boston Area.