Driving in New Orleans is not just about enjoying the scenic beauty of our unique city. With it comes the responsibility to ensure safety for ourselves and those on the road with us. Auto insurance plays a critical role in this context. While there are various components to auto insurance, we shine the spotlight on a component which many undervalue: the Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist coverage protects you if you’re in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t carry liability insurance. Underinsured Motorist coverage, on the other hand, comes into play when you’re in a collision with an at-fault driver whose liability limits are too low to cover the damage or medical expenses.
Why is UM/UIM Coverage Important in New Orleans?
Although auto insurance is a legal requirement in Louisiana, the Insurance Research Council reports that approximately 13% of motorists were uninsured in 2019. Beyond these figures, many drivers carry only the minimum liability coverage, which often doesn’t suffice in severe accident scenarios. Thus, you could incur significant out-of-pocket costs if involved in an accident with such drivers. UM/UIM coverage is a safety net you need in such situations.
Choosing UM/UIM Limits
It’s crucial to opt for UM/UIM coverage on par with your regular liability limits. This ensures you have the same level of protection whether the at-fault party is insured adequately, underinsured, or not insured at all.
At Guffey Insurance Services in New Orleans, LA, we believe in comprehensive coverage that shields you from all vulnerabilities on the road, including those presented by uninsured or underinsured drivers. Get in touch with us to discuss your auto insurance needs and include this essential component in your policy.