What Georgia Drivers Need to Know About Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage is built to offer financial protection if you’re involved in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t have insurance to cover vehicle damages. While it is often sold with underinsured motorist coverage, the two apply to different situations. Underinsured motorist coverage steps in when that driver carries insurance, but those limits fall short of your actual damages.

Georgia law requires insurers to include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in every auto insurance policy they issue, although drivers can decline it in writing.

What Does This Coverage Include?

Uninsured motorist coverage typically offers financial support after an accident when the other driver is at-fault for the following:

• Medical expenses for you and your passengers
• Lost wages resulting from accident-related injuries
• Pain and suffering damages, depending on policy terms
• Costs to repair or replace your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident

Key Considerations for Georgia Drivers

Georgia consistently ranks among states with higher rates of uninsured and underinsured drivers. Here are other important factors to note about uninsured motorist coverage:

• Uninsured motorist coverage may also apply in hit-and-run accidents, not just situations where the other driver is identified. Georgia requires either physical contact with the unknown vehicle or an independent eyewitness to support a hit-and-run claim.
• Liability coverage in an auto insurance policy does not financially protect you when an uninsured driver causes an accident. It only pays for injuries or damage you cause to others when you are at fault.
• Your own health insurance may cover some medical costs, but it typically does not address lost wages or pain and suffering the way underinsured motorist coverage can.

Drive With Financial Confidence

If you have questions about uninsured motorist coverage or want to review your current policy, we’re here to help. Contact BBWH Insurors today to learn more.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.