You did everything right. You followed the rules of the road. Then another driver hit your car, and now you’re staring at medical bills and repair costs. Here’s the bad news: that driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover what you lost. What happens now?
In Washington state, this situation happens more often than you’d think. If you find yourself in such situation, your own insurance policy may hold the answer.
Know Washington’s coverage gap
Washington law requires drivers to carry liability insurance, but the minimum limits are low. Many drivers carry only the state minimum, and some carry no insurance at all. If a driver with minimal or no coverage hits you, their policy might not come close to paying for your injuries or damage.
This gap is exactly why uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or UM/UIM, exists.
Use your UM/UIM coverage
UM/UIM coverage sits inside your own auto policy. It steps in when the at-fault driver carries too little insurance or none at all. Insurance companies in Washington must offer this coverage, though you can reject it in writing.
If you have UM/UIM coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurer instead of chasing an underinsured driver for money they don’t have. Your insurer pays the difference between what the at-fault driver’s policy covers and what you actually need.
Take action after the crash
Start by reporting the accident to police and getting a copy of the report. Seek medical care right away, even if your injuries feel minor. Document everything: photos, medical records, repair estimates and witness contact information.
Contact your insurance company promptly to start your UM/UIM claim. Keep records of every conversation and submission.
Check your policy today
Don’t wait until after an accident to find out what your policy covers. Review your UM/UIM limits today, and consider raising them if they seem too low.
If you’re a Vancouver resident dealing with an underinsured driver claim, talk to a local attorney who understands Washington’s insurance laws. The right guidance can make a real difference in what you recover.