Key Takeaways
- If the other driver has no insurance, your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage pays for bodily injury expenses up to your policy limits.
- Missouri's minimum UM coverage is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident — often insufficient for serious injuries.
- UM coverage does not cover property damage unless you added optional property damage coverage to your policy.
- You can sue an uninsured driver directly in Missouri, though collecting a judgment may be difficult.
What to Do When the Other Driver Has No Insurance
In Missouri, getting into a car accident with an uninsured driver means that you need to use your own insurance policy's Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This mandatory component of car insurance for drivers in the state pays for bodily injury expenses like medical bills and lost income up to the policy limits. The minimums for UM in Missouri are $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
With accidents involving an uninsured driver in Missouri, you can file a claim with your own insurance company under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This will take care of your medical expenses and lost wages up to the coverage limits on your policy.
As for property damage, the UM coverage required for every driver to have does not cover it. If you added an optional property damage coverage under UM, it would be covered. Many drivers do not add this on to keep their costs lower for insurance premiums. In those situations, you would likely need to use your own collision coverage minus whatever your deductible is to repair your vehicle.
Since so many Missouri drivers only hold the minimum insurance coverages required by the state, when these incidents happen, they find they are grossly uninsured. This could leave you vulnerable for covering the remaining costs out of pocket, though you also have the option to sue the other driver for these extensive financial impacts. The Bruning Law Firm has created a uninsured motorist claims in missouri: complete guide to help you understand your rights and options in these types of situations.
Can I Stack Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Missouri?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is often allowed to be stacked in Missouri. This means if you have multiple vehicles on one policy or even multiple policies, you might be allowed to add these coverage limits together to increase your total coverage for this accident. How much UM coverage protects you from uninsured drivers is linked to the limits of your policy, and stacking may help you avoid incurring excess costs.
Can My Insurance Raise My Rates After a UM Claim?
Missouri law generally prohibits insurance companies from raising your insurance premiums when you file a UM claim if you were not the one at fault for the crash.
What Should I Do at the Scene if the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
Always call the St. Louis police or whichever local police department is closest to you in Missouri to create an official record. Documenting that they have no insurance helps, and with the police there, they will be sure to note that the other driver was uninsured. If you're wondering whether you can sue an uninsured driver directly, you can, though it is best to speak with our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys who can help you take those steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does uninsured motorist coverage cover hit and run accidents?
Yes. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run in Missouri and the other driver cannot be identified, your UM coverage can help pay for your injuries. Learn more about does uninsured motorist coverage cover hit and run situations.
How much uninsured motorist coverage should I carry?
Attorneys recommend carrying at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident. Read our detailed guide on how much uninsured motorist coverage do i need for help deciding the right amount.
Can I sue an uninsured driver in Missouri?
Yes, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against an uninsured driver in Missouri. However, collecting a judgment can be challenging if the driver has limited assets. An attorney can help you evaluate whether a lawsuit is worth pursuing.
Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm helps St. Louis car accident victims understand their rights under Missouri personal injury law and fights to recover maximum compensation on their behalf. There is no fee unless we win, so call (314) 735-8100 today for a free consultation with our St. Louis attorneys for uninsured driver accidents.