How UM/UIM Coverage Protects You
Virginia requires insurers to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, and it is one of the most valuable protections a driver can have. When an at-fault driver has no insurance, your UM coverage steps in. When the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover your losses, your UIM coverage can make up the difference. This coverage can also protect you as a pedestrian or cyclist, and it often covers family members.
Many people don't realize how much UM/UIM coverage they have, or that multiple policies can sometimes be 'stacked.' An attorney can identify every available source of coverage.
Why UM/UIM Claims Still Require a Fight
Even though you are claiming against your own insurer, a UM/UIM claim is still an adversarial process. The insurance company will scrutinize your injuries and — because Virginia follows contributory negligence — may argue you were partly at fault to reduce or deny the claim. Having an attorney handle the claim helps ensure you are treated fairly and paid what your policy provides.
Hit-and-Run and Phantom-Vehicle Cases
UM coverage frequently applies in hit-and-run crashes, where the at-fault driver flees and cannot be identified, and in 'phantom vehicle' cases where another car forces a crash without contact. These claims have specific notice and proof requirements that an experienced attorney can navigate.
Maximizing Your Recovery
Network attorneys review all applicable policies, evaluate stacking opportunities, document the full extent of your injuries, and negotiate aggressively with your insurer so that your own coverage delivers the protection you paid for.
Remember: Virginia’s contributory negligence rule can bar your recovery if you are found even 1% at fault. Early legal guidance protects your uninsured motorist lawyer claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may pay for your injuries. An attorney can identify and pursue every applicable policy.
In some situations multiple UM/UIM policies or coverages can be combined to increase the total available. An attorney can determine whether stacking applies to your case.
Using UM/UIM coverage after a not-at-fault crash should not be treated as an at-fault claim. An attorney can advise on your specific policy and situation.