In an Accident? Understand Your Insurance: Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured (UIM) Policies
- Goldman Law Firm
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a critical component of your auto insurance policy, designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. In New Jersey, all vehicles registered or primarily garaged in the state are required to carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage in New Jersey
Uninsured motorist coverage safeguards you if you're involved in an accident with a driver who doesn't have insurance or in a hit-and-run scenario where the at-fault driver remains unidentified. In such cases, your own insurance company compensates you for losses up to the limits of your UM policy. It's important to note that your UM coverage cannot exceed your own liability coverage limits.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage in New Jersey
Underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver's insurance is insufficient to cover your damages. For example, if the at-fault driver has a $15,000 liability policy and your damages total $75,000, your UIM coverage can help bridge the gap, allowing you to recover the difference from your own insurer, up to your UIM policy limits. Note, however, that your total recovery cannot exceed the face value of your UIM coverage.
General Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver
Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by obtaining immediate medical care and keeping detailed records of your injuries and treatments.
Report the Accident: File a police report to document the incident officially.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the accident promptly to initiate the claims process.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney: Navigating UM and UIM claims can be complex. An attorney can help you gather necessary evidence, negotiate with your insurer, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Why Choose Goldman Law Firm
At Goldman Law Firm, we have years of experience handling uninsured and underinsured motorist claims in New Jersey. Our deep understanding of state insurance laws and commitment to our clients ensure that you receive the compensation you're entitled to. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay, unless unless we win your case.
Contact Us Today
If you've been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, don't navigate the complexities alone. Contact Goldman Law Firm at (908) 692-7745 for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you 24/7, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
Comments