Insurance Read Time: 2 min

Protection Against Uninsured Drivers

About 12.6 percent of all motorists, or one-in-eight drivers, do not have automobile insurance, according to the Insurance Research Council.¹

Having the misfortune to get into an accident with an uninsured motorist may have serious financial consequences, depending upon the state in which you reside and whether it is a “no-fault” or “tort” state.

In no-fault states, the law does not assign blame for an accident. As a result, each driver is reimbursed by his or her insurance company for any damages. In a “tort” state, insurance companies pay out claims based upon the percentage of fault assigned to each driver.²

Any accident with an uninsured driver means no insurance reimbursement payment for his or her apportioned share of the damage. This can leave you holding the financial bag.

How to Protect Against Uninsured Drivers

Some states require drivers to take out insurance for uninsured (and underinsured) motorists. Where not required, it may be a good idea to add that coverage to your auto policy.

You can buy protection against uninsured (and underinsured) drivers for both bodily injury and property damage. This coverage may also be valuable in cases where an insured motorist flees the scene of an accident without trading insurance information.

The first step to protect yourself against this potential financial risk is to contact your insurance agent to discuss your current coverage, applicable state insurance laws, and what you need to do to obtain protection against uninsured motorists.

1. Insurance-Research.org, March 22, 2021
2. The information in this material is not intended as legal advice. Please consult legal or insurance professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

The Utility of Sector Investing

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

Should You Ever Retire?

Should You Ever Retire?

A growing number of Americans are pushing back the age at which they plan to retire. Or deciding not to retire at all.

How Will Working Affect Social Security Benefits?

How Will Working Affect Social Security Benefits?

Knowing the rules may help you decide when to start benefits.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Systematic Withdrawals in Retirement

Taking regular, periodic withdrawals during retirement can be quite problematic.

Retirement Questions That Have Nothing to Do With Money

Things to consider before retirement.

Life and Death of a Twenty Dollar Bill

How long does a $20 bill last?

View all articles

Self-Employed Retirement Plans

Estimate the maximum contribution amount for a Self-Employed 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, or SEP.

Federal Income Tax

Use this calculator to estimate your income tax liability along with average and marginal tax rates.

Saving for Retirement

This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.

View all calculators

Principles of Preserving Wealth

How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

View all presentations

The Other Sure Thing

Though we don’t like to think about it, all of us will make an exit sometime. Are you prepared?

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

View all videos