Why is it important to have uninsured motorist insurance?

Uninsured motorist coverage protects you when you are in a wreck with someone who is under insured or has no insurance at all. Unfortunately, this scenario happens far too often and it is important that you know how to protect yourself and your vehicle. There are several options when it comes to choosing the amount of coverage in your policy.

The Georgia law changed in January of 2009, allowing for Stackable Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage. This coverage protection is usually worth the small extra cost. If you choose this option, you can “stack” or add your coverage on top of the coverage of the “at fault” uninsured driver. For example, if you suffer $90,000 of injuries and damages, and the “at fault” driver’s policy only covers $25,000, the minimum required, you can stack your uninsured coverage to increase your recovery.

Non-stacking Uninsured/Underinsured coverage disallows stacking onto the “at fault” underinsured driver’s coverage. Your policy minus the “at fault” driver’s policy determines the maximum recovery available. If you choose to waive uninsured or underinsured coverage, you may save money now, but you and your family members will not be fully protected from injury by an uninsured or underinsured driver. Remember that “full coverage” policies do not usually include uninsured motorist coverage, so be sure to ask your insurance provider about this coverage.