Hidden Protection on the Road- Understanding UIM/UM Coverage in Indiana
September 22, 2025
Hidden Protection on the Road: Understanding UM/UIM Coverage in Indiana
When we think of auto insurance, our minds often go to liability coverage — the part of the policy that protects us if we cause an accident. But what about the other drivers on the road? What happens if you’re involved in a collision with someone who has little or no insurance? This is where a critical, yet often overlooked, part of your policy comes in: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
At Ball Eggleston, we believe that being prepared is the best defense on the road. While safe driving practices are crucial, it is equally important to be protected from the risks posed by other drivers. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is a crucial safety net and a part of every auto insurance policy.
What is UM/UIM Coverage?
Often sold as a single package, UM/UIM coverage is a “first-party” protection, meaning it pays for your own injuries and damages when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient or nonexistent.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This protects you if you are in an accident caused by a driver who has no auto insurance at all. It also typically applies in hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver is never found.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: This protects you if you are in an accident caused by a driver who has car insurance, but their policy limits are not high enough to cover all the damages and expenses you incurred.
Think of it as your personal safety net, designed to cover what the at-fault driver’s policy cannot.
How much UM/UIM Coverage Do I Have?
Indiana law requires all auto insurance policies to provide UM/UIM coverage in an amount at least equal to the liability policy limits. So, if a policy holder has liability limits of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, the same amount of coverage would be provided for UM/UIM coverage. However, you can elect to pay for more UM/UIM coverage than the minimum required by Indiana law. Having this additional coverage can be crucial if the driver who causes a collision does not have enough insurance.
The Value of Being Prepared: Why UM/UIM is Crucial
As a responsible vehicle owner, you do your part by maintaining your own insurance. However, you cannot control the decisions of every other driver on the road. Many drivers choose to drive without any insurance, and many more carry only the state-mandated minimums, which may be woefully inadequate in a serious accident. The minimum amount of liability coverage in Indiana is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
The financial consequences of a major car accident — extensive medical treatments, physical therapy, lost income, pain and suffering — can quickly exceed the at-fault driver’s coverage limits. UM/UIM coverage ensures that you are not left to bear these costs on your own. It is a proactive step toward protecting yourself and your family from a financial catastrophe.
What to Do After an Accident with an Uninsured/Underinsured Driver
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and you suspect the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured there are certain steps that must be followed to qualify for your UM/UIM coverage. Not following these steps can void the available UM/UIM coverage. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Ball Eggleston can help navigate the complicated world of auto insurance uninsured and underinsured motorist claims.