What Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Because Texas is an at-fault state, accident victims must first pursue the at-fault driver’s insurance. But when that driver only carries the minimum $30,000 liability policy and your injuries are worth far more, their coverage may not be enough.

This is where underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps. UIM is optional coverage you can buy through your own insurance company to protect yourself when the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low. If you didn’t sign a rejection form, your insurer may still be required to provide at least $30,000 in coverage.

For example, if your injuries are worth $100,000, the at-fault driver only has $30,000, and you carry $100,000 of UIM coverage, you could collect $30,000 from the driver’s policy plus up to $100,000 more from your own insurance—for a total of $130,000 in compensation.

Because UIM claims often involve complex negotiations with insurance companies, having an experienced attorney can help you identify all available coverage and maximize your recovery.