In the state of Missouri, all drivers are legally required to have auto insurance. The state’s minimum limits are broken up into a 25/50/25 ratio: $25,000 for bodily injury, $50,000 for bodily injury of multiple people (total), and $25,000 for property damage. Upon first glance, this may seem like a sufficient package, but when it comes to large families and sports vehicles, those limits may not be enough to protect you or others. To avoid paying out of pocket for accidents that you may be found at fault for, be sure to talk to your agent about the most appropriate coverage limits for your auto. 

But what if you are involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault? What if the other driver has these state minimum limits, and it isn’t enough to cover your family’s medical expenses? What if the other driver doesn’t have any insurance at all? 

That’s where uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance comes in.  

What is the difference? 

Uninsured Motorist coverage is a legally required and automatically included part of your auto policy. This coverage kicks in when you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have any liability insurance at all. Even though it is required by law to carry the above-mentioned liability limits on all vehicles, the fact is that several people do not abide by this mandate. Uninsured Motorist coverage will ensure that you are protected against irresponsible drivers.   

Underinsured Motorist is an additional, optional coverage that comes in handy when those state minimum limits just aren’t enough to cover your medical expenses. If you are the victim of an auto accident that lands your family in the hospital, the last thing you need to worry about is the money of it all. Should you be the victim of an accident with an underinsured motorist, their insurance policy will pay for damages to you up to their set limits, and the Underinsured Motorist coverage will take care of the excess expense. 

It is unnecessary to worry about other drivers having sufficient coverage to protect you and your loved ones from an unexpected accident. Make sure your family is as safe as can be, and find out how much protection is most appropriate for your situation by calling your BMI agent!