Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by an uninsured driver if I have collision coverage?
What happens if an uninsured driver hits you? Sadly, it's common, which might leave you wondering if collision insurance covers uninsured drivers. Learn what damage auto insurance covers if you have collision coverage and are in an accident with an uninsured driver.
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Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Scott W. Johnson
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Zach Fagiano has been in the insurance industry for over 10 years, specializing in property and casualty and risk management consulting. He started out specializing in small businesses and moved up to large commercial real estate risks. During that time, he acquired property & casualty, life & health, and surplus lines brokers licenses. He’s now the Senior Vice President overseeing globa...
Zach Fagiano
Updated December 2023
- There are differences between collision coverage and uninsured motorist coverage
- A collision insurance policy will work to repair damage to your vehicle in case of an accident
- Underinsured driver insurance can cover you if you are involved in a crash with an underinsured or uninsured motorist
Auto insurance is an essential aspect of owning and driving a vehicle. It protects you from financial losses arising from accidents, collisions, or unforeseen events on the road.
One of many drivers’ most common concerns is whether their auto insurance covers damages caused by an uninsured driver driving without auto insurance. This article discusses the chances of your auto insurance covering damage caused by an uninsured driver if you have collision coverage.
Readmore: Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured?.
Collision Coverage vs. Uninsured Motorist Coverage With Damage Caused by an Uninsured Driver
Understanding how auto insurance works is vital to making sure you have the proper coverage. While both collision and uninsured motorist coverage can provide protection in an accident with an uninsured driver, they work in different ways.
Collision coverage is designed to cover damage to your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. For example, suppose you have collision coverage and are in an accident with an uninsured driver.
In that case, your insurance company will pay for the cost of repairs to your car up to your policy limit, minus your deductible. However, it’s important to note that collision coverage does not cover any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained in the accident.
On the other hand, uninsured motorist coverage is designed to cover damages and injuries caused by an uninsured driver. If you have affordable uninsured or underinsured auto insurance coverage, and you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, your insurance company will pay for the cost of damages and injuries up to your policy limits.
In addition, some states will cover injuries to you and passengers, while others will also cover property inside your car.
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What can you do to protect yourself from damages caused by an uninsured driver if you have collision coverage?
If you’re worried about harm from uninsured drivers, you can do a few things to protect yourself and your vehicle.
- Purchase uninsured motorist coverage: Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy. Knowing that you are protected in an accident with an uninsured driver can provide peace of mind.
- File a claim with your insurance company under your collision coverage: While your collision coverage may not cover damages caused by an uninsured driver, it may still provide coverage for damages caused by a hit-and-run driver or a driver with inadequate insurance coverage.
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company: If the at-fault driver has insurance coverage, but it is not enough to cover the damages from the accident, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance company for the remaining balance.
You can contact your auto insurance provider for further information or to learn how to check the status of an auto insurance claim.
Closing Thoughts on Whether Auto Insurance With Collision Covers Damage Caused by an Uninsured Driver
So how do you know if you chose the right auto insurance coverage type?
If you have affordable full coverage auto insurance, some damages will likely be covered, but it is still important to double-check with your insurance provider.
Uninsured motorist coverage may provide additional protection in an accident with an uninsured driver. Contact your insurance company to gain valuable knowledge and protect your peace of mind.
Read more: Affordable Uninsured or Underinsured Auto Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What if someone else who isn’t on my insurance crashes my car?
If someone who isn’t on your insurance crashes your car, your insurance policy will likely cover the damages, but you may be required to pay a deductible. If the driver who crashed your car has their insurance policy, their insurance may also cover some of the damages.
However, if the damages exceed the limits of your and their policy, you may be responsible for paying the remainder out of pocket. Review your insurance policy and understand what is and isn’t covered if someone else crashes your car.
What is the most common collision deductible?
The most common collision deductible is $500. If you have a collision and need to claim on your insurance policy, you would be responsible for paying the first $500 of the damages, and your insurance company would cover the rest.
However, deductibles can vary depending on the insurance company and the policyholder’s preferences.
Is it illegal to drive uninsured?
Yes, it is illegal to drive uninsured in most states. All states in the US except New Hampshire require drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to operate a motor vehicle legally. Driving without insurance can result in penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges.
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