Uninsured Motorist Coverage: What it is and why you might need it.
The ebb and flow of traffic are accompanied by the unfortunate reality of car crashes, some minor and some devastating. As seasoned personal injury lawyers at Sandel Law Firm, we've been on the front lines, aiding countless Cleveland and Akron car crash victims. We've witnessed victims not only grapple with physical and emotional pain post-accident but also face the financial shock of dealing with at-fault parties that lack insurance. It’s essential, now more than ever, for Ohio residents to understand personal injury law and the crucial role of uninsured motorist coverage.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Technically, UM coverage is UMBI coverage (Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury) for the injury claim. There is also UMPD coverage (Uninsured Motorist Property Damage) for the vehicle damage, which is separate but unnecessary if you have collision coverage on your vehicle. Finally, there is UIM coverage or UIMBI coverage (Underinsured Motorist coverage), which will cover an injury claim that is worth more than the at fault person’s insurance.
Diving Deep into Personal Injury Law in Ohio
When you're injured in Ohio due to another driver's negligence, whether it's because they were texting, driving under the influence, or just not paying attention, the law affirms your right to seek compensation. This encompasses everything from injuries, property damage, and in some severe cases, ongoing rehabilitation costs and lost future earnings.Under ideal circumstances, this compensation would come smoothly from the at-fault party's insurance. But, as many of our clients have discovered, we don’t always live in an ideal world.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Your Financial Guardian
Enter the role of Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage. Think of it as your financial bodyguard. When the negligent party has no insurance (or very minimal coverage), UM Coverage takes the reins. It's a segment of your car insurance policy, often overshadowed by the other coverage types but equally significant. This coverage provides a financial reprieve, covering medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and in some situations, even emotional distress.
When Real Life Takes a Twist: Scenarios from Ohio's Roads
Let's paint a clearer picture with some real-life scenarios:
Scenario 1: Jane, an industrious single mother of two, was driving back from her children's soccer practice. As she approached an intersection, a distracted teenage driver, engrossed in his smartphone, ran a red light, resulting in a terrifying T-bone collision. Amidst the chaos, Jane's primary concern was the well-being of her children. But as the dust settled, the reality of medical needs and lost wages came into focus. To add salt to the wound, the teenage driver had no insurance. However, thanks to Jane’s foresight in having UM coverage, she was able to make an injury claim with her own insurance company, and ensure that she would receive compensation for her injuries.
Scenario 2: Tom, an avid motorcyclist, was on one of his long rides across Ohio's picturesque landscapes. Suddenly, a sedan swerved, perhaps failing to spot Tom in its blind spot, causing a grievous collision. The driver, panicked, sped away, leaving Tom with not just physical injuries but the financial burden of an unsolved hit and run. In this dire circumstance, Tom’s UM coverage was his savior, allowing him to make an injury claim with his own insurance company, handling the medical bills and aiding his road to recovery.
A Stitch in Time: Preparing for the Roads Ahead
While Ohio mandates every driver to have a minimum liability coverage, the law is silent on UM coverage. Go beyond the basic requirement. Protect not just your vehicle, but your financial future, your peace of mind.
In Closing: Ohio, Be Ready and Drive Safe
Life is unpredictable. While we can't always prevent mishaps, we can prepare for their aftermath. Review your insurance policies, be aware of what you’re covered for, and always consider the benefits of adding uninsured motorist coverage.If ever you find yourself in a situation needing guidance or representation in a personal injury case, remember that the experienced team at Sandel Law Firm stands ready to assist. We're here to navigate Ohio's intricate legal maze alongside you, ensuring justice is served and your peace of mind is restored.Stay safe on those roads, Ohio. Your well-being is worth every precaution.