Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Pennsylvania: Why You Might Need It
Why This Coverage Matters
Imagine you’re driving home from work when another car runs a red light and hits you. Your car is totaled, and you’re injured, but then you learn the driver who hit you doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your expenses.
Unfortunately, this scenario is more common than you might think. That’s where Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage steps in to protect you financially. Having the right auto insurance coverage in Pennsylvania is essential for protecting yourself and your family.
What Is Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Protects you if you’re hit by a driver with no insurance at all.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: Protects you if the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your damages or medical bills.
In Pennsylvania, both coverage types are optional, but skipping them could leave you paying out of pocket if an uninsured or underinsured driver causes an accident.
Why It’s Important in Pennsylvania
According to the Insurance Research Council, about 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. is uninsured. Pennsylvania drivers are not immune to this problem, and even those with insurance often carry state-minimum liability limits, which may not fully cover serious accidents.
Without UM or UIM coverage, you could be stuck with:
Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Medical bills beyond the other driver’s coverage limits
Lost wages if you can’t work after the accident
Learn more about Insurance Research Council study on uninsured drivers
How It Works
Here’s an example:
You’re hit by a driver carrying only $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage (the Pennsylvania minimum).
Your medical expenses total $50,000.
Without UIM coverage, you may only receive the at-fault driver’s $15,000, leaving you responsible for the rest.
With UIM coverage, your policy helps pay the difference so you’re not left financially vulnerable.
How Much Coverage Should You Get?
A good rule of thumb:
Match your UM and UIM limits to your liability coverage limits.
Many experts recommend at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident for adequate protection.
Your insurance agent can help you customize coverage amounts to fit your needs and budget.
Cost vs. Protection
The best part? UM and UIM coverage is usually very affordable, adding this protection often costs far less than the financial burden of an uncovered accident.
Think of it as peace of mind coverage: it’s there when the other driver can’t pay.
How Ebensburg Insurance Can Help
At Ebensburg Insurance, we help Pennsylvania drivers:
Understand the risks of driving without UM/UIM coverage
Compare coverage options and costs
Choose the right protection for their families and budgets
Our team takes the time to explain your options clearly so you can make confident decisions.
Final Thoughts
Skipping UM and UIM coverage might save a few dollars now, but it could cost thousands later. Protect yourself, your family, and your finances by making sure you have the right coverage in place.
Not sure if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage? Contact Ebensburg Insurance today for a free policy review and find out if you’re fully protected.
