Why is underinsured motorist coverage important?

To save money, some people choose to carry only minimum liability coverage – just enough to drive legally. This choice often leaves them underinsured and unable to pay for vehicle damage or medical expenses if they cause an accident. That’s why underinsured motorist coverage is important—it protects you from motorists who haven’t fully protected themselves.

Two components of underinsured motorist coverage

  • Underinsured motorist property damage: Pays for covered damages to your car or other property
  • Underinsured motorist bodily injury: Pays for covered medical expenses, lost wages and other damages experienced by you or your passengers

Understand your state’s laws

Underinsured motorist coverage is typically paired with uninsured motorist coverage, depending on the state you live in. If it’s sold separately, it may or may not be required in your state. Talk to your agent if you have questions.

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Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions, and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply.

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. 

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