Why You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Nevada
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing, but it becomes even more complicated when the driver who caused the accident doesn't have insurance. Suddenly, you find yourself facing not only the physical and emotional consequences of the collision but also the financial burden of repairs, medical bills, and other costs.
Around 12% of drivers in Nevada do not have car insurance. Lasso Injury Law recommends that everyone who owns a motor vehicle purchase uninsured motorist coverage to protect themselves.
Understanding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) safeguards you in the event of an accident caused by a driver who doesn't have insurance. Having UM coverage provides an added layer of protection in case you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.
There are two main types of UM coverage:
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): UMBI is an insurance coverage that helps protect you, your passengers, and other authorized drivers of your insured vehicle if you're involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. It provides financial assistance for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by the accident.
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): UMPD covers the expenses of repairing or replacing your vehicle or other damaged property when you're in a collision with an uninsured driver.
In Nevada, while uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not mandatory, the insurance company is required to offer it to you. If you don't want it, you have to opt out in writing.
Underinsured motorist coverage
In addition to uninsured motorist coverage, Nevada also requires insurance providers to offer underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). Underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver in an accident has insurance, but their policy limits are insufficient to cover your damages fully.
Coverage limits
In Nevada, it's a legal requirement for all drivers to have a minimum liability insurance coverage of 25/50/20: $25,000 for injuries per person per accident, $50,000 total for injuries per accident, and $20,000 for property damage per accident. Nevada law also requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM insurance at the same level. Essentially, if you are hit by an uninsured driver, your UM coverage (if you have it) stands in for the other driver's liability insurance.
Protect yourself with a Las Vegas car accident attorney
Experiencing an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist can be emotionally and financially challenging. Having the right insurance coverage is crucial to protect yourself and your loved ones. Uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage in Nevada can provide the financial support you need to recover from the damages caused by these incidents.
If you find yourself with an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim, the legal team at Lasso Injury Law is here to help. Our experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process with confidence, ensuring that your rights are protected.
Remember, accidents happen, and being prepared with adequate insurance coverage and a car accident attorney can make a significant difference in your recovery and peace of mind. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation.
