Ummmm, UIM UM
Underinsured motorist coverage (called "UIM") and uninsured motorist coverage (called "UM") are two types of automobile insurance that every motorist in Missouri should have. They provide protection in motor vehicle accident cases in which the negligent driver doesn't have enough or any insurance.
UIM insurance is coverage you can purchase that will pay you for any damages in excess of the negligent driver's insurance coverage. For example, if you are hurt in a car accident and have $50,000.00 in damages, but the negligent driver only has $25,000.00 in insurance coverage, then your own insurance company will pay you the $25,000.00 difference.
UM insurance is coverage you have that will pay you for your damages if you are in a car accident caused by someone that doesn't have any insurance (uninsured). So, if you have $50,000.00 in damages, but the negligent driver has $0 insurance coverage, your own insurance company will pay you $50,000.00.
Both types of insurance are very important to have because, despite the fact that Missouri mandates drivers to have at least $25,000.00 in car insurance, most people don't. Also, a lot of car accidents result in more than $25,000.00 in damage. UIM and UM insurance will help you recover your damages if the negligent driver is underinsured or uninsured.
Matthew D. Meyerkord is a personal injury attorney in Kansas City, Missouri.