National Insurance Day
June 28th is National Insurance Day—a perfect reminder to check your coverage and make sure you’re protected on the road. One type of insurance that often gets overlooked but can make a huge difference is uninsured motorist coverage. Recently David Greene from Greene & Phillips Injury Lawyers joined Studio 10 to talk about why uninsured motorist coverage is so important.
Many drivers don’t realize the importance of uninsured motorist coverage. What is it, and why does it matter?
Uninsured motorist coverage, or UM coverage, is insurance that protects you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your damages. It’s incredibly important because even though the law requires drivers to have insurance, many don’t—and if you’re hit by someone without coverage, you could be left paying for everything yourself.
What does uninsured motorist coverage typically cover?
UM coverage generally pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes pain and suffering if you’re hurt in a crash caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. It can also help if you’re in a hit-and-run accident. Essentially, it steps in to make sure you’re not left footing the bill for someone else’s mistakes.
How common are uninsured drivers in our area?
Unfortunately, it’s more common than people think. In Alabama, for example, it’s estimated that around 20% of drivers are uninsured. That means there’s a good chance you could be involved in a crash with someone who doesn’t have insurance at all.
How can drivers make sure they’re protected?
The best way is to talk to your insurance agent and make sure you have enough uninsured motorist coverage. It’s usually not expensive, and it can save you a lot of trouble and expense down the road. Review your policy regularly and make sure your coverage limits are high enough to protect you and your family.
If someone is injured by an uninsured driver, what steps should they take?
First, get medical care right away and report the accident to the police. Then, document everything—take photos, gather witness information, and keep all medical records. Finally, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. At Greene & Phillips, we’ve helped many people navigate claims involving uninsured drivers and can help you protect your rights.
And how can people reach you if they need help after an accident?
At Greene & Phillips, we’re always here to help. You can stop by our office at 51 North Florida Street—no appointment needed. You can also call or text us at 251-300-2000, or fill out a contact form. And remember, if you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.
