How Much Can I Get from an Underinsured Motorist Claim?

One of the most common questions we receive from an injured client is how much can I get from an underinsured motorist claim. Underinsured motorist coverage kicks in if you were involved in an accident where the at-fault driver does not have sufficient insurance to cover your damages. It is critically important that underinsured motorist coverage help provide you with reasonable compensation for the injuries and other losses you have sustained.

At Burger Law, we guide residents in St. Louis, MO through the intricacies of UIM claims and work towards maximizing their recovery.

Understanding What Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage and How It Works.

UIM, or underinsured motorist coverage, is a type of insurance that applies when the other driver’s insurance is not enough to cover your damages. Although optional in Missouri, it is highly recommended to add extra financial protection. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 16.4 % of drivers in the United States are uninsured, plus many others are underinsured. This type of coverage helps bridge the gap when your medical bills, property damage, or other losses exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits.

What Affects How Much You Can Get from an Underinsured Motorist Claim?

Several factors affect how much one can recover in a UIM claim. These include, but are not limited to, the extent of your damages, the liability limits of the at-fault driver, and the terms of your own UIM policy.

Coverage

Your recovery against UIM will be based upon the actual limits of your underinsured motorist coverage. For instance, if the limit of your UIM policy is $100,000 but the at-fault driver’s insurance is for only $25,000, you could be entitled to recover up to $75,000 under your policy.

Liability

In a UIM claim, the determination of the other driver’s fault is essential. You will have to prove the other party was responsible for the accident so you are compensated. This generally includes police reports, witness statements, and when necessary, accident reconstruction.

Medical Bills

Medical expenses comprise the lion’s share of many UIM claims. From the ER to long-term physical therapy, these expenses tend to accumulate very quickly. UIM will provide coverage for the costs in excess of the policy limits of the at-fault driver.

Injuries

Your injuries’ severity and long-term impact play a major role in determining your compensation. More serious injuries requiring extensive treatment or resulting in permanent disabilities will generally warrant higher settlements.

Lost Wages

You can recover lost income under UIM coverage if your injuries keep you from going back to work. This applies to both wages lost while recovering and any potential future income you could lose if you have suffered a long-term disability.

Pain and Suffering

These damages compensate you for the physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by the accident. Although harder to quantify, these damages comprise a major component of UIM claims.

Property Damage

Besides medical costs and lost income, UIM may also cover repairs for your vehicle or replacement of totaled property, exceeding the coverage of the at-fault driver.

Policy Limits

Your recovery will depend directly on the limits of the policy. Missouri does allow stacking if there are multiple vehicles covered under one plan, which could increase your recovery.

“I’ve dedicated my entire life to helping our clients receive full compensation for their injuries.”

Gary Burger

Personal Injury Attorney

How Underinsured Motorist Coverage Is Calculated?

The calculation of underinsured motorist coverage involves comparing the at-fault driver’s insurance limits to your UIM policy limits. Once the liability limits are exhausted, your UIM coverage can supplement the remaining damages up to your policy’s maximum.

For instance, if the at-fault driver’s policy has a $50,000 limit and your damages total $100,000, your UIM coverage can provide up to $50,000, depending on your policy limits. It is crucial to thoroughly review your insurance documents to understand the maximum amount you may be entitled to under your plan.

How to Fill an Underinsured Motorist Claim (UIM)

Filing the UIM claim requires careful documentation and adherence to your insurance company’s procedures. Here are basic steps to ensure a successful claim:

1. Notify your insurer promptly: Inform your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Delayed notification could jeopardize your claim.
2. Gather evidence: police reports, medical records, photographs, and all other documented pieces of evidence that will prove the liability of the other driver and the amount of your damages.
3. Identify the at-fault driver’s policy limits: Confirm in writing the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage and the limits.
4. File your claim: Forward your UIM claim to the provider with all supportive evidence attached.
5. Negotiate a decent settlement with your insurance provider: If disputed, you may require legal intervention to have full compensation certified for you.

Get the Compensation You Deserve with Burger Law

UIM claims can be challenging, but the Car Accident Lawyers at Burger Law are here to help you recover the full compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys in St. Louis, MO, have a proven track record of handling underinsured motorist claims effectively and efficiently. Contact us today at (314) 500-HURT to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can fight for you.

Gary Burger

Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO

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