Many Idaho drivers assume that carrying minimal auto insurance is enough, but in serious accidents, especially those involving uninsured or underinsured drivers, the consequences can be financially devastating. Understanding how much uninsured motorist (UM) coverage you really need can protect you from uncovered medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we help clients throughout Idaho understand the difference between UM and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, determine adequate limits, and protect their rights after serious injuries.
Understanding UM vs. UIM Coverage
While UM and UIM coverage are related, they serve slightly different purposes:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance.
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: Applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to fully cover your damages.
Both coverages are essential in Idaho, particularly for serious injury claims, as medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs can quickly exceed the minimum insurance requirements.
Idaho Minimums vs. Recommended Coverage
Idaho law requires liability coverage but does not mandate UM/UIM coverage, though most insurers offer it. Typical minimum coverage amounts may not be enough for serious accidents:
- Minimum UM/UIM coverage: Often $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident.
- Recommended coverage: $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident—or higher, depending on lifestyle and assets.
Why the difference matters: In accidents involving fractures, surgeries, or long-term injuries, the minimum coverage can leave victims undercompensated, forcing them to pay out-of-pocket for medical bills and lost income.
Real-World Examples of Inadequate Coverage
Consider these scenarios:
Case 1: Fractured Spine
A driver suffers a spinal fracture after being hit by an uninsured motorist. Surgery, hospital care, and rehabilitation cost $150,000. With minimum UM coverage of $25,000, the victim must cover $125,000 themselves unless additional coverage exists.
Case 2: Traumatic Brain Injury
A passenger sustains a traumatic brain injury in a crash. Long-term therapy and future care total $500,000. The at-fault driver carries only $50,000 in liability coverage, leaving a massive gap that UIM coverage could help fill.
Case 3: Lost Wages and Future Earnings
A driver with serious leg injuries cannot return to work for a year. Lost wages and future earning potential are not fully covered by minimum UM limits, highlighting the importance of higher coverage amounts.
These examples demonstrate why relying solely on minimum coverage in Idaho can be risky.
Why Higher UM/UIM Limits Make a Difference
Having sufficient UM/UIM coverage ensures:
- Medical bills are fully covered, including surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and future earning potential are addressed
- Pain and suffering or emotional trauma can be included in claims
- Financial security is maintained even if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we review clients’ insurance policies to identify gaps, recommend appropriate coverage levels, and guide them through the claims process after serious injuries.
Steps to Protect Yourself
- Review your auto insurance policy for UM and UIM coverage limits.
- Consider increasing limits based on potential medical and lost wage costs.
- Document medical treatment and ongoing care thoroughly after any accident.
- Contact an experienced Idaho attorney for guidance on coverage and claims.
- Act promptly to ensure all evidence and medical records are preserved for your claim.
Protect Your Recovery With Adequate Coverage
Serious car accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers can have devastating financial consequences. By understanding the difference between UM and UIM coverage and choosing adequate limits, you protect yourself and your family from uncovered injuries, lost income, and long-term care costs.
If you’ve been involved in a crash in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Twin Falls, or anywhere in Idaho, Johnson & Lundgreen can help review your coverage, document injuries, and guide you toward full compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation to ensure your insurance truly protects you when it matters most.