Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Maryland

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage in Maryland is designed to protect drivers in the event they are involved in an accident with another motorist who either does not have auto insurance or does not have sufficient insurance to cover the damages. This type of coverage is a mandatory part of auto insurance policies in Maryland, ensuring that policyholders have financial protection against damages caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how uninsured motorist coverage works in Maryland:

Coverage Details: 

• Bodily Injury and Property Damage: Uninsured motorist coverage in Maryland includes protection for both bodily injury and property damage. This means if you’re in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, your insurance can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering for bodily injury, as well as repair or replacement costs for property damage.

Requirements and Limitations: 

• Mandatory Coverage: According to the Maryland Insurance Code, specifically Section 19-509, all motor vehicle liability insurance policies issued in the state must include uninsured motorist coverage.
• Minimum Coverage Limits: The law requires minimum coverage limits for uninsured motorist coverage to be $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. These limits are designed to match the minimum liability coverage requirements in Maryland.
• Option for Higher Limits: Policyholders have the option to purchase higher limits of uninsured motorist coverage for additional protection. This is often recommended to ensure adequate coverage in the event of a serious accident.

Filing a Claim: 

• Claim Process: If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist, you would file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage. Your insurer would then evaluate the claim and provide compensation up to the limits of your coverage.
• Timelines and Procedures: There are specific procedures and timelines that must be followed when filing an uninsured motorist claim in Maryland.  It’s important to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible and to provide all necessary documentation to support your claim.

Differences from Other Types of Auto Insurance Coverage: 

• Liability vs. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Unlike liability coverage, which pays for damages you cause to others, uninsured motorist coverage protects you and your passengers from damages caused by drivers without adequate insurance.
• Collision Coverage: Uninsured motorist property damage coverage may overlap with collision coverage, but they serve different purposes. Collision coverage applies regardless of fault, while uninsured motorist coverage specifically addresses accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.

In summary, uninsured motorist coverage is a critical component of auto insurance in Maryland, offering protection against the financial impact of accidents caused by uninsured or inadequately insured drivers. It ensures that policyholders have recourse for recovering damages for bodily injury and property damage without having to bear the costs themselves.

Here are some scenarios implicating uninsured motorist coverage: 

Scenario 1: Hit-and-Run Accident 

Situation: John, a Maryland resident, was involved in a hit-and-run accident while driving home from work. The other driver fled the scene, leaving John with significant injuries and a badly damaged car.

Without UM Coverage: John would face the daunting task of covering medical expenses and car repairs out of pocket, potentially leading to financial strain.

With UM Coverage: John’s UM coverage kicked in, covering his medical bills and the cost of repairing his vehicle. This coverage provided a financial safety net, allowing him to recover without the added stress of significant financial loss.

Scenario 2: Accident with an Underinsured Driver 

Situation: Sarah was involved in a severe accident caused by another driver whose liability insurance coverage was insufficient to cover the total cost of Sarah’s medical treatments and vehicle damage.

Without UIM Coverage: Sarah would have to cover the difference between the at-fault driver’s insurance payout and her actual expenses, which could be substantial, depending on the severity of the accident and the damages incurred.

With UIM Coverage: Sarah’s UIM coverage made up the difference, ensuring that her medical and repair bills were fully paid. This coverage protected her from the financial impact of the underinsured driver’s limited liability insurance.

Scenario 3: Accident with an Uninsured Driver 

Situation: Alex was hit by an uninsured driver, resulting in significant injuries and damage to his car. The at-fault driver had no insurance to pay for the damages or medical bills.

Without UM Coverage: Alex would be responsible for all his medical expenses and car repairs, a burden that could lead to financial hardship, especially if he was unable to work due to his injuries.

With UM Coverage: Alex’s UM coverage provided compensation for his injuries and vehicle damage, alleviating the financial burden of the accident. This coverage ensured that he was not left to bear the cost of an accident caused by an uninsured driver.

Conclusion 

These hypothetical scenarios underscore the critical role of uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage in protecting Maryland drivers from the financial consequences of accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists.  While each situation is unique, the common thread is the financial relief and protection provided by UM and UIM coverage, highlighting its value in a comprehensive auto insurance policy. Understanding and maintaining appropriate coverage levels can significantly mitigate the financial impact of such unfortunate incidents, offering peace of mind and security on the road.

If you have been involved in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance, you may be entitled to compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage.  At Henderson Law, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of UM and UIM claims and recover the maximum compensation they deserve.

In Maryland, UM and UIM coverage is mandatory, providing an important safety net for drivers and passengers who are injured by negligent, uninsured, or underinsured motorists. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident, ensuring you don’t have to bear the financial burden alone.

Our team understands the unique challenges of UM and UIM claims and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.  We will guide you through the entire claims process, handling all communication with insurance companies and ensuring your case is presented in the strongest possible light.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, don’t hesitate to contact Henderson Law, LLC for a free consultation.  Our attorneys will review the details of your case and advise you on the best course of action to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.