We’ve all heard of it – uninsured motorist coverage. But do you know what it means and what it does? More importantly, do you know if you need it? As it turns out, many-if not most-Georgia residents have no idea what uninsured motorist coverage is and whether or not they need to have it. And while it may not be legally required under Georgia law, the reality is you should have it.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage
While many people who carry auto insurance believe they are fully covered, odds are this is not entirely accurate. Often times you simply carry the minimum amount of coverage required by law, which does not include uninsured motorist coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage is essentially what it sounds like – it covers damages you sustain when you are injured by a driver who does not have any insurance, or very little. This way, you can be fully compensated for your injuries.
Why Should I Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage
So why should you have uninsured motorist coverage if Georgia drivers must carry auto liability insurance? The answer may shock you. Roughly 1/4 of Georgia drivers carry little to no insurance! Statistically speaking, if you are injured by another driver, there is close to a 25% chance that you will have a very difficult time receiving compensation-if you are compensated at all-for your injuries caused by the other driver.
Further, even if the other driver does have insurance, their policy limits may not be enough to pay for all of your damages. But if you have uninsured motorist coverage, your policy can make-up the difference.
While uninsured motorist coverage will raise the cost of your own insurance policy, it is not that expensive. This is why you are likely unfamiliar with uninsured motorist coverage, because insurance agents have little incentive to sell it to you.
Finally, adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy will also raise the cost of your liability insurance coverage slightly. However, this will help protect you in the event you caused or contributed to the cause of your auto accident.
Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Review your auto insurance policy and strongly consider adding uninsured motorist coverage, today.
At Murphy & Garner, LLC our Georgia personal injury attorneys understand that someone else’s negligence shouldn’t be your financial burden. When you are injured, you need reimbursement for your medical expenses and compensation for your pain. Our attorneys fight for people injured in all types of accidents, and can help you protect your rights.
The attorneys at Murphy & Garner, LLC offer free consultations for injured people. To set up your appointment, call 678-563-1584 today.
