Why You Need Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage - Michigan Auto Insurance 101

Bryan Gutowsky • March 6, 2024

Michigan Auto Insurance: Why You Need Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If you’re driving in Michigan, you’ve probably noticed that auto insurance rates are among the highest in the country. Unfortunately, that also means a significant number of drivers on the road are choosing to skip insurance altogether. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 drivers in Michigan—about 25%—are uninsured.


So what can you do to protect yourself, your family, or even your business if you're hit by someone who doesn't have insurance—or doesn’t have enough?


That’s where Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage comes in. Whether you have a personal or commercial auto policy, this coverage is one of the most important (and often overlooked) pieces of protection you can have in Michigan.


Why Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage So Important in Michigan?

Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance system is unique. While it provides medical coverage through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) regardless of who’s at fault, it doesn’t cover everything—and it certainly doesn’t mean you’re fully protected.


Here are three key reasons why Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage is a must-have:


1. It Complements Your No-Fault Benefits

Michigan’s PIP coverage is designed to pay for medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. But it doesn’t cover damages like pain and suffering, lost wages beyond a certain point, or long-term disability.


If the at-fault driver is uninsured—or doesn’t carry enough liability coverage—UM and UIM coverage can step in to cover those additional losses.


2. It Helps You Avoid Legal Hassles

Without UM or UIM coverage, your only option after being hit by an uninsured driver might be to sue them personally. That’s expensive, time-consuming, and often a dead end—especially if the other driver has no assets.


UM and UIM coverage lets you recover compensation directly through your own policy, saving you from legal headaches and wasted time in court.


3. It Protects You Against Michigan’s High Uninsured Driver Rate

With one of the highest uninsured driver rates in the country, Michigan drivers face a real risk every time they’re on the road.


Having Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage gives you peace of mind that you won’t be left footing the bill for someone else’s negligence—whether it’s damage to your car, medical expenses, or other serious losses.


Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook This Crucial Coverage

If you're shopping for Michigan auto insurance, it's easy to focus on the basics: liability, collision, and comprehensive. But Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage is just as critical—especially here in Michigan.


Whether you’re a business owner with a commercial fleet or simply trying to protect your family on the road, make sure you have adequate UM and UIM limits on your policy.

It’s affordable.
It protects you when others don’t.
And it could save you thousands—if not more—after a serious accident.


Need Help Reviewing Your Auto Insurance Coverage in Michigan?


📞 We’re here to help. Contact us today to make sure you have the protection you need against uninsured and underinsured drivers.

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