UIM and Uninsured Motorist Claims

Many drivers on Washington roads carry only the minimum liability limits, or no insurance at all. When your injuries are worth more than their policy, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage on your own auto policy steps in.

Here is what surprises people: once you make a UIM claim, your own insurance company starts acting like the other side. It is still their money. We handle UIM claims the same way we handle any other, and Washington law gives insureds real protections when a carrier unreasonably delays or denies a claim.

When UIM applies

• The at fault driver had no insurance
• The at fault driver's limits are less than the value of your claim
• Hit and run crashes where the driver is never identified
• Crashes as a pedestrian or cyclist, where your auto policy may still cover you

Things to know

• Washington insurers must offer UIM coverage, and it can only be waived in writing. Many people have it without realizing.
• Settling with the at fault driver without notifying your UIM carrier first can put your UIM claim at risk.
• Policies in your household may stack or provide additional coverage depending on their terms.