Virginia is one of around 20 states that requires drivers to purchase uninsured/underinsured driver insurance. This insurance kicks in when drivers are involved in crashes with other motorists who either don’t carry enough insurance to cover their crash-related costs, or they don’t have any insurance coverage whatsoever.
However, the minimum amounts of coverage associated with uninsured/underinsured driver insurance are the same as the minimum amounts of liability coverage. That means that if you’re hurt in a crash, you may be eligible to receive only $25,000 for your injuries and medical bills. And when you factor in costs such as an ambulance ride to the hospital, an overnight stay in the hospital (or longer), physical rehabilitation, and even surgery, you’re looking at a bill that will be much higher than $25,000.
That’s why it pays to have more coverage than the minimum, whether it’s your own liability insurance or your uninsured/underinsured driver coverage. You can also supplement your insurance policy with Medical Payments coverage. This coverage, also known as Med Pay, kicks in after any injury-causing crash, regardless of who was at fault, and it’s paid out in addition to any other compensation you receive.
You can also add lost income benefits coverage, which will help you replace lost paychecks while you’re too hurt to work. This insurance maxes out at $100 per week, which doesn’t sound like a lot, but can make a big difference when you’re waiting for your injury claim to settle.
Need help with an injury claim after an auto accident? The Virginia auto accident lawyers at Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
