In Missouri, navigating the roads lawfully means more than just obeying traffic signs and signals; it also involves abiding by auto insurance requirements, particularly regarding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This protection is essential when an accident is caused by a motorist who either lacks sufficient insurance or none at all.
Uninsured motorist coverage acts like a personal accident policy, following the insured beyond just the vehicle they drive. It offers peace of mind by ensuring that victims receive the equivalent compensation they would have obtained had the at-fault driver been adequately insured. The coverage steps in during accidents where the other driver is at fault but does not have liability insurance, including hit-and-run incidents.
Conversely, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, which is not mandatory in Missouri, fills in the gaps when the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short. Opting for UIM coverage when setting up an insurance policy is a strategic move to avoid the financial strain that can come with car accidents.
Missouri’s Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect motorists who are injured in accidents caused by those who lack insurance. This type of insurance covers the insured person in any location rather than being limited to a specific vehicle. This coverage ensures that anyone injured by an uninsured driver receives the same level of protection they would have if the other party had liability insurance.
In Missouri, the law mandates minimum insurance coverage as follows:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
- Uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- Uninsured motorist coverage of $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
Typically, if an accident occurs and it’s not your fault, you would note the insurance details of the at-fault driver, file a claim with their insurer, and obtain compensation for damages. However, not all drivers are insured, and sometimes drivers may flee the scene before you can gather their information.
To substantiate a claim in incidents like hit-and-runs, evidence of another vehicle’s involvement, such as street camera footage, police reports, or eyewitness testimony, is necessary.
In Missouri, residents can file an uninsured motorist claim under the following conditions:
- The insured sustained bodily injuries
- These injuries were a result of an accident with an uninsured motorist
- The insured is legally entitled to compensation from the uninsured driver
- All relevant policy limits have been exhausted through payment or settlement, and proof such as a DMV report may be required to confirm that the at-fault driver was uninsured
Uninsured motorist coverage only applies when the opposing driver, who lacks insurance, is at fault for the accident. Consequently, insurance companies conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances of the accident to confirm liability before paying out claims. This is because insurers aim to prevent unjustified claims on your uninsured motorist policy.
Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage Required in Missouri?
Accidents involving underinsured drivers occur when the responsible party’s insurance isn’t sufficient to cover the injuries and damages sustained by the victim. In these cases, victims must turn to their own insurance providers to cover the shortfall of the accident-related costs.
In Missouri, unlike uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is optional. You must opt for it when you are setting up your insurance policy. Without UIM coverage, your compensation is limited to what the at-fault driver’s policy can pay out. It is advisable to include UIM coverage in your insurance to ensure adequate protection.
Speak With the Car Accident Lawyers of Goza & Honnold
When you’re involved in an accident caused by a driver without insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage can protect you. At Goza & Honnold, we understand the complexities of dealing with uninsured motorists and the challenges of ensuring your claim is valid and properly addressed. Our experience with Missouri’s insurance laws allows us to guide you through the process of filing an uninsured motorist claim, helping you demonstrate the other driver’s lack of coverage and proving the damages you’ve sustained.
Whether it’s a case involving a hit-and-run or a situation where the other driver doesn’t carry the required insurance, we work closely with you to explore all avenues of compensation. We are committed to helping you navigate through these obstacles, advocating for you during investigations by insurance companies to ensure your claim is taken seriously. If you’re dealing with an uninsured motorist claim, contact us today at (913) 451-3433 or fill out our contact form.