Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Washington State

Washington State’s roads can be unpredictable, and the unfortunate reality is that not all drivers carry sufficient insurance. Whether due to financial hardship or oversight, many drivers are either uninsured or underinsured, putting others at risk in the event of an accident. This is where uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes critical. For residents of Kent, WA, this type of insurance can make all the difference after a car accident.

Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC, a trusted car accident lawyer in Kent, explains why UIM coverage is essential and how it can protect you from financial loss if you're involved in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver.

Despite mandatory auto insurance requirements, a surprising number of Washington drivers operate vehicles without adequate insurance. According to the Insurance Research Council, around 16.1% of drivers in Washington are uninsured, ranking the state among the top 20 for uninsured drivers in the U.S. This number does not even account for the many more drivers who have insurance, but whose coverage limits are too low to cover the full extent of damages in a serious accident.

When you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages becomes extremely difficult unless you have UIM coverage. This type of coverage steps in to pay for damages when the at-fault driver either doesn’t have insurance or their coverage is insufficient.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage acts as a safety net in cases where the at-fault driver cannot provide adequate compensation. UIM coverage is designed to cover a range of expenses, including:



• Medical bills: Hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments such as physical therapy.
• Lost wages: If your injuries cause you to miss work, UIM can compensate for lost income during recovery.
• Pain and suffering: In serious accidents, you may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
• Property damage: UIM can also help cover repairs or the replacement of your vehicle.

For Kent residents, having this added protection can be vital, particularly as Washington’s car accident laws dictate that injured parties can file claims only up to the limits of the at-fault driver’s policy. In cases where that limit is exceeded, UIM coverage is your best chance of making a full recovery.

Filing a UIM claim can be complex, especially when insurance companies look to minimize payouts. That's why working with an experienced car accident attorney like those at Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC is critical. A skilled car crash lawyer will ensure your claim is filed correctly and advocate for you during negotiations.

To start the claim process, you’ll need to:

1. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, providing all relevant details about the crash.
2. Document the accident thoroughly, including photos of the scene, medical reports, and witness statements.
3. Consult a car accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. A lawyer can negotiate with your insurance company to get the best possible compensation for your injuries and damages.

In some cases, your insurer may dispute the extent of your damages or argue that the other driver was not at fault. Having a car accident attorney on your side ensures that you are not taken advantage of and that you receive fair compensation.

While Washington does not require drivers to carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, insurance companies are legally required to offer it as part of their policies. Drivers must opt out in writing if they choose not to purchase it. However, given the significant risks of encountering an uninsured or underinsured driver, purchasing this additional coverage is highly recommended.

UIM coverage is particularly important in a state like Washington, where the risk of an uninsured driver causing an accident is relatively high. Without it, you could be left with significant out-of-pocket expenses after a crash.

Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, particularly when it involves an uninsured or underinsured driver. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your insurance policy, file claims correctly, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC, based in Kent, WA, has extensive experience handling UIM claims. Their team will ensure that your case is handled with care, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. With a trusted car crash lawyer on your side, you can rest assured that your rights are protected and that you’ll receive the compensation you need to recover from the accident.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is an essential safeguard for Washington drivers, offering financial protection in the event of an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance. By working with an experienced car accident attorney like Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC, you can ensure that your UIM claim is handled effectively and that your rights are protected every step of the way.

If you’ve been in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, don’t navigate the claim process alone. Contact Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC, your trusted car accident lawyer in Kent, WA, to secure the compensation you deserve.

References:

Insurance Research Council. (2021). Uninsured Motorists Report: Uninsured Motorists in the U.S. Retrieved from Insurance Research Council.

Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Section 46.29.090: Mandatory Insurance Requirements. Available at Washington State Legislature.

Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Auto Insurance: Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage. Retrieved from WA OIC.