Do You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Missouri?
Quick answer: Yes, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is required in Missouri. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 379.203, every auto liability policy must include bodily injury UM coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. Getting into one with a driver who has no insurance? That can turn a bad day into a financial nightmare. Missouri uninsured motorist insurance exists to protect drivers in exactly that situation, and understanding how it works could make a significant difference in your recovery.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Missouri?
Yes. Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory for all Missouri drivers. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 379.203, every auto liability insurance policy issued in the state must include bodily injury uninsured motorist coverage. The required minimum limits are:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
This means that if you currently hold an auto insurance policy in Missouri, you already have some level of UM coverage. That said, the minimum limits may not be enough to cover serious injuries, so reviewing your policy with an insurance professional is always a good idea.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Actually Cover?
Missouri uninsured motorist insurance covers bodily injuries you or your passengers suffer in an accident caused by:
- A driver with no auto insurance
- A hit-and-run driver who cannot be identified
Covered costs typically include medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation expenses. What UM coverage does not cover is damage to your vehicle, which falls under uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) or collision coverage, depending on your policy.
What Is the Difference Between Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Missouri?
These two types of coverage are often confused, but they apply in different situations.
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all, or when a hit-and-run driver cannot be identified. As noted above, this coverage is required by Missouri law.
- Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover your damages fully. In Missouri, UIM coverage is optional, not mandatory. However, given the financial risks involved in a serious accident, many attorneys and insurance professionals strongly recommend adding it to your policy.
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Matters for Missouri Drivers
Missouri consistently ranks among the states with higher rates of uninsured drivers. The Insurance Research Council (IRC) has estimated that roughly 1 in 8 drivers nationwide is uninsured, and Missouri’s numbers track closely with that figure.
Without adequate uninsured motorist coverage, a collision with an uninsured driver could leave you paying out of pocket for medical treatment, time off work, and long-term rehabilitation. UM coverage shifts that financial burden back where it belongs, giving you and your family meaningful protection on the road.
Injured by an Uninsured Driver in Missouri? Contact Labovitz Law Firm.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, you may be entitled to compensation. The claims process can be complicated, and insurance companies do not always make it easy to recover what you are owed.
Labovitz Law Firm helps Missouri accident victims navigate uninsured motorist claims and fight for the full compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Is uninsured motorist coverage mandatory in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri Revised Statutes § 379.203 requires all auto liability policies to include bodily injury uninsured motorist coverage, with minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Does Missouri uninsured motorist coverage apply to hit-and-run accidents?
Yes. UM coverage applies when the at-fault driver cannot be identified, which includes most hit-and-run accidents.
What is the difference between UM and UIM coverage in Missouri?
UM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance. UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their limits are insufficient to cover your damages. UM is required in Missouri; UIM is optional.
What should I do if an uninsured driver hits me in Missouri?
Report the accident to police, seek medical attention immediately, and notify your insurance company. Consider consulting a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options under your uninsured motorist coverage.
