# How much uninsured motorist coverage should I have to protect myself?

Amelia Palmer · August 4, 2026

> In 2024, approximately 1 out of 8 drivers on the road are uninsured, according to industry data. This highlights the importance of adequate uninsured...

In 2024, approximately 1 out of 8 drivers on the road are uninsured, according to industry data.

This highlights the importance of adequate uninsured motorist coverage.

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Many experts recommend matching your uninsured motorist coverage limits to your liability coverage limits.

This ensures you have the same level of protection whether you're hit by an uninsured or insured driver.

20 states and Washington D.C.

currently require drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage.

However, coverage minimums vary significantly between states.

Uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you're hit by a driver with no insurance.

Uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) covers vehicle repairs.

Drivers with significant assets should consider higher uninsured motorist coverage limits to protect their finances in the event of an accident with an uninsured at-fault driver.

The cost of uninsured motorist coverage is based on factors like your location, driving history, and vehicle type.

Premiums can range from $50 to $300 annually on average.

Underinsured motorist coverage is often sold alongside uninsured motorist coverage.

It protects you if the at-fault driver has insufficient liability limits to cover your damages.

Some states allow you to reject uninsured motorist coverage in writing, but this is generally not recommended unless you have very robust health and auto insurance policies.

Uninsured motorist claims typically have a shorter statute of limitations compared to liability claims, often just 1-2 years in many states.

Rideshare drivers should ensure their personal auto policy includes adequate uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, as their rideshare company's coverage may have limitations.

When selecting uninsured motorist coverage limits, consider your anticipated medical expenses and lost wages in the event of a serious accident with an uninsured driver.

Uninsured motorist coverage follows the person, not the vehicle.

This means your coverage protects you whether you're driving your own car, a rental, or even as a passenger in someone else's vehicle.

Stacking uninsured motorist coverage, where you can combine limits from multiple policies you own, is allowed in some states and can provide enhanced protection.

Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the least utilized auto insurance benefits, with many policyholders unaware of its importance until they need to file a claim.

In no-fault insurance states, uninsured motorist coverage becomes even more critical, as it can help cover expenses not fully compensated by the at-fault driver's liability policy.

Policyholders should review their uninsured motorist coverage limits periodically, as medical costs and other expenses can rise over time, potentially requiring higher coverage limits.

Some insurers offer "enhanced" uninsured motorist coverage, which provides additional benefits like rental car reimbursement or death benefits beyond the standard policy.

Uninsured motorist coverage is portable, meaning it follows you as the policyholder, not just your registered vehicle.

This protection extends to you as a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian.

In the event of an accident with an uninsured driver, your uninsured motorist coverage can also help cover your deductible if your own collision coverage is used to repair your vehicle.

Comprehensive claims related to theft or vandalism are separate from uninsured motorist coverage, so you'll need both types of protection to be fully covered in all situations.

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