Do I need uninsured coverage if I have collision coverage?
Asked by: Lukas Rippin | Last update: August 7, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (57 votes)
What happens if I don't have uninsured motorist coverage?
Without uninsured motorist coverage, if you're injured or your vehicle is damaged in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you could end up paying for medical bills or vehicle repairs out of your own pocket.
At what point is collision insurance not worth it?
If your vehicle is paid off, there are only a few instances that justify dropping collision coverage: Your vehicle's value is less than a few thousand dollars: If your car holds minimal value, collision coverage may not be worth carrying. This is especially true when a large car insurance deductible is involved.
What is the disadvantage of uninsured motorist coverage?
Some cons to consider include: Additional cost: Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy typically increases your insurance premium, which can be financially burdensome. It is important to weigh the benefits against the added cost and your budget.
Can you have just collision coverage without comprehensive?
Some insurers require that you purchase collision and comprehensive insurance together, while other insurers may allow you to purchase these two types of coverage separately. Collision insurance pays for: Damage to your car in an accident you cause. Damage to your car if you hit an object such as a fence or pole.
Why Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage If I Have Collision? - InsuranceGuide360.com
Do you need uninsured if you have collision?
California law does not require you to carry uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage—so, legally, you don't need either one. However, UM/UIM is an important and commonsense coverage to carry.
Is it better to have a $500 deductible or $1000?
Remember that filing small claims may affect how much you have to pay for insurance later. Switching from a $500 deductible to a $1,000 deductible can save as much as 20 percent on the cost of your insurance premium payments.
Is uninsured motorist better than collision?
Deductibles: Collision coverage often comes with a deductible you're responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurer pays the rest. Uninsured motorist coverage usually has no deductible, making it a preferable option for immediate, out-of-pocket expenses.
Will my insurance go up if I use my uninsured motorist coverage?
This is because when you cause an accident and have to make a claim to pay for damages caused to other people, your rates typically do increase. However, under California's proposition 103, insurance companies are not allowed to raise rates or drop a person because they made an uninsured motorist claim.
What does collision coverage cover?
Collision coverage
Collision pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision with an object (e.g., a telephone pole, a guard rail, a mailbox), or as a result of flipping over. The average cost is about $290 per year. Collision coverage reimburses you for the costs of repairing your car, minus the deductible.
When should you drop full coverage on your car?
For example, you might want to drop comprehensive coverage if: You park your car in the garage and protect it from animals, falling objects, and severe weather. You plan to replace your car next time it needs big repairs. Your car is worth less than the deductible on your comprehensive coverage.
Why would you not want to have collision coverage?
Collision insurance only pays up to the current market value of your car, minus your collision deductible. Since older cars typically have a low market value, collision coverage won't pay out much, if anything, in a total loss. Be sure to research your car's worth before deciding on whether to drop the coverage.
What is a good amount of collision coverage?
The most commonly required liability limits are $25,000/$50,000/$25,000, which mean: $25,000 in bodily injury per person. $50,000 in total bodily injury per accident. $25,000 for property damage per accident.
What is the deductible for uninsured motorist coverage?
The amount of your UMPD deductible will vary based on your state. It usually falls in between $100-$1,000. Note that some states may have a separate deductible for hit-and-run claims. You may not have the option to choose your deductible amount for UMPD coverage.
Why are there so many uninsured drivers?
Reason 1: They Can't Afford it
Putting aside a situation where you get into an accident and have to pay out of pocket for repairs and medical bills (yours or others involved), driving uninsured also carries steep fines and a loss of your license. You also may be surprised by how affordable car insurance can be.
Is it bad to not have uninsured motorist coverage?
It is still recommended you carry UMC/UIM insurance even if you have a good health insurance plan. UMC/UIM is first-party insurance that allows you to recover from your own insurance company for all your compensatory damages after an accident that is not your fault (up to your policy limit).
Will my insurance go up if someone with no insurance hits me?
But, as a California personal injury attorney I can assure you that your insurance company should not raise your rates for making an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist claim on your policy. In fact, in most cases, doing so may violate long-standing California legal statutes.
How much does it cost to add uninsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage costs around $50-$75 annually for bodily injury and property damage coverage. Like any type of car insurance, uninsured motorist premiums vary based on the policyholder's risk factors and how much coverage they purchase.
Will insurance go up after uninsured motorist claim?
Can Insurance Companies Raise Your Rates After a Claim? California law prohibits insurance companies from raising your rates based solely on an accident where you were not at fault.
How do insurance companies go after uninsured drivers?
If the at-fault party is uninsured, the insurer may pursue subrogation against the driver personally.
Does Geico collision cover uninsured drivers?
Get car insurance coverage from GEICO
Our coverage plans are designed to give you peace of mind, knowing you're protected against the costs incurred from accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers.
What is a good car insurance deductible?
$500 is the most common car insurance deductible. Not every type of car insurance coverage uses a deductible. A higher car deductible can lower your insurance premium. You pick your deductible when buying insurance.
How to get a new roof without paying deductible?
No matter what a roofer tells you you must pay your deductible. There is no way around it and insurance will consider it insurance fraud if they do. Many homeowners try to find a way around this but there is no way around it. You can also verify this directly with your insurance provider or an attorney.
Will raising my deductible lower my car insurance?
When you're choosing a deductible, keep in mind that you may be more or less comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs vs monthly costs. A high deductible will lower your overall insurance rate, however it will increase your out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.