If you’ve ever glanced at your car insurance policy and skipped over the uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage section, you’re not alone, but that oversight could cost you far more than you think.
At Spencer Injury Law, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating a crash can be when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough of it to cover the damage they’ve caused. Unfortunately, this scenario is far more common in Washington State than many realize and something we are seeing more frequently.
It’s not mandatory in Washington, but opting out could leave you and your family dangerously exposed.
Here’s the bottom line: it protects you, not the other driver. You’re not doing anyone else a favor by having this coverage. You’re protecting yourself and your loved ones.
How Many Drivers in Washington Are Uninsured?
According to the Insurance Research Council, an estimated 21.7% of Washington drivers were uninsured in recent years, the fifth highest rate in the nation. That means more than 1 in 5 vehicles on the road is being operated by someone who cannot pay for the harm they cause in a crash.
Even among those who are insured, minimum coverage limits often fall far short of what’s needed after a serious accident. Washington’s minimum required liability insurance is just $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and only $10,000 for property damage. That amount barely scratches the surface when it comes to the cost of repairing or replacing a modern vehicle.
The Property Damage Problem: Why UMPD Coverage Matters
Today’s vehicles are more expensive to repair and replace than ever before. The average price of a new vehicle is now over $48,000, and even used vehicles have seen significant value increases. Add in the rising cost of parts, labor shortages, and the increasing complexity of newer cars with sensors, cameras, and electronics, and it’s easy to see how property damage claims can easily exceed $20,000 to $30,000 — even in relatively moderate collisions.
If you are hit by an uninsured driver, and you don’t carry Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage, you may be left paying thousands of dollars out of pocket — or be forced to rely on your own collision coverage, which may come with a deductible and cause your premiums to rise.
UMPD coverage is typically inexpensive, yet many people don’t even realize they’ve declined it until it’s too late. It can pay for:
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Towing and storage fees
- Rental car coverage while your vehicle is in the shop
UMPD gives you the power to recover financially, even when the other driver has no way to compensate you.
Bodily Injury and Property Damage: A One-Two Punch
UM/UIM coverage isn’t just about medical expenses. It protects both your health and your financial security, especially when it includes property damage protection. A crash caused by an uninsured driver can leave you not only injured but without transportation, potentially missing work, school, or other critical obligations.
By carrying sufficient UM/UIM coverage, including UMPD, you ensure that one moment of someone else’s negligence doesn’t become a long-term financial burden for your family.
Our Recommendation
We strongly recommend carrying at least UMPD coverage that matches the full value of your vehicle. If you drive a newer or high-value vehicle, consider purchasing higher limits or a UM/UIM endorsement through an umbrella policy.
Protect yourself from the growing risk of uninsured drivers and the skyrocketing cost of vehicle repairs and replacements.
Have Questions? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve been in a crash with an uninsured or underinsured driver, or if you’re unsure whether your policy provides the coverage you need, contact Spencer Injury Law today. We’ll help you understand your options, review your policy, and fight to make sure you get every dollar you’re entitled to — including coverage for your vehicle and your peace of mind.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Make sure your policy protects you.
