We’re currently representing a number of people with devastating injuries following an auto accident. Accidents arise from a number of different scenarios, including drunk drivers and distracted drivers. And, despite the fact that our vehicles are safer today than they were years ago, catastrophic injuries still happen.

Many states, including Missouri, only require drivers to carry $25,000.00 in insurance coverage. The simple fat is that this minimum limit simply does not provide for fair compensation when dealing with catastophic injuries. The consequences of these severe auto accidents may include a loss of the ability to perform even basic, daily tasks. Injured individuals often miss time from work and require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. When you factor in the rising cost of medical care and simple diagnostic tests, even simple injuries may exceed the minimum limits available under most insurance policies.

So, what happens if you are seriously injured and the at-fault party has minimum limits available?

What is Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

You can protect yourself by purchasing “underinsured motorist coverage” or “UIM”. This is coverage provided by your own insurance company to provide additional coverage when the at-fault party is “underinsured”. You must purchase this coverage before your are involved in an auto accident.The coverage cannot be retroactively applied. Further, it is usually very affordable and only increases your premiums slightly.

To make a claim under your underinsured motorist coverage, you must first obtain or collect all of the proceeds available under the at-fault party’s insurance policy. You must then establish the full nature and extend of your damages to the satisfaction of your own insurance company. Sometimes, the amount of coverage that your purchased  may be reduced by money received by you from the at-fault party.

The attorneys at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC urge you to review your family automobile coverage with an attorney, whether that attorney is a member of this firm or another firm, before you are in an accident.We cannot advise any specific minimum limits regarding UIM coverage but we can discuss worst case scenario situations.

Finally, never hesitate to seek legal advice following an auto accident. You need to make sure that your attorney has all of your policies if you have been in an auto accident. Insurance policies are legal contracts, which often require you to jump through hoops to make a successful claim. Our lawyers are familiar with these claims and the steps necessary to jump all of the hoops. We will lead you through the process, helping you obtain full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Contact Us Today

If you have any questions regarding your coverage or you, a family member, or friend have found yourself in the unfortunate position of being involved in an auto accident feel free to contact us or call us at (573)686-2459. We are here for you when you need us.