Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Why You Need Protection and How VanDerGinst Law’s Attorneys Can Help
Car accidents are stressful enough, but if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance—or any insurance at all—the situation can become even more complicated. Between medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages piling up, uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can be financial lifesavers. At VanDerGinst Law, our experienced uninsured and underinsured motorist attorneys have helped countless clients secure the compensation they need when dealing with uninsured or underinsured drivers.
Here’s why UM and UIM coverage is essential, how they work, and why contacting an uninsured or underinsured motorist attorney at VanDerGinst Law should be your next step after an accident.
What are Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverages?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you in the event you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance. However, even if the at-fault driver has insurance, their coverage limits may not be enough to cover all your expenses. In these cases, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes crucial. 
Both UM and UIM coverage can help pay for:
- Medical expenses for injuries sustained in the accident
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering from the physical and emotional toll of the accident
- Vehicle repairs or replacement if your car is damaged
Rather than relying on the at-fault driver, you can file a claim through your own insurance policy. The uninsured and underinsured motorist attorneys at VanDerGinst Law are here to guide you through the process.
Why Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage is Essential
The Reality of Uninsured Drivers: Despite legal requirements, many drivers fail to carry insurance. The Insurance Research Council estimates that 1 in 8 drivers in the U.S. is uninsured. Whether you’re driving in Illinois, Iowa, or elsewhere, the risk of encountering an uninsured driver is real. This is why having UM coverage—and the help of an uninsured motorist lawyer—is critical.
Protect Yourself from Financial Loss: Without UM or UIM coverage, you may be responsible for paying out of pocket for medical bills, car repairs, and other costs. Serious injuries can lead to long-term financial burdens, but with the right coverage, you’re protected. A VanDerGinst Law uninsured or underinsured motorist attorney can help ensure you recover compensation through your insurance policy.
The Risk of Underinsured Drivers: Even if a driver has insurance, their policy limits may not be sufficient to cover your damages. For instance, if your medical expenses total $50,000 but the at-fault driver’s insurance only covers $25,000, your UIM coverage can step in to bridge the gap. This is when an underinsured motorist lawyer can be a key ally.
How UM/UIM Claims Work
If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company under your UM/UIM coverage. However, insurance companies often attempt to minimize their payouts—even when you’re filing under your own policy. This is why having an uninsured or underinsured motorist attorney from VanDerGinst Law on your side can make all the difference.
Here’s what you should do:
- Document the Accident: Take photos, gather witness information, and file a police report.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get medical care and keep detailed records.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the accident and file a claim under your UM/UIM coverage.
- Consult a VanDerGinst Law Attorney: Our uninsured and underinsured motorist lawyers will help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
How VanDerGinst Law’s Attorneys Can Help You
At VanDerGinst Law, we understand the complexities of uninsured and underinsured motorist claims. Our skilled attorneys are here to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation available under your policy. Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: Our attorneys will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to prove the extent of your injuries and damages.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often offer low settlements or deny valid claims. Our experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
- Maximizing Compensation: We seek compensation for all your losses, including:
- Medical bills (both current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- No Fees Unless We Win: At VanDerGinst Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the full financial recovery you’re entitled to, without the stress of upfront legal fees.
Contact VanDerGinst Law’s Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Attorneys Today
If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, don’t face the legal and insurance battles alone. Contact the experienced uninsured and underinsured motorist lawyers at VanDerGinst Law today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
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