This coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient limits to cover your injuries or damage. Uninsured Motorist (UM) pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) kicks in when the at-fault driver’s limits are too low. It is highly recommended, as it is your only recourse against irresponsible drivers. In many states, it is required to be offered, and you must formally reject it in writing if you don’t want it.

Common cases involve slip and falls on wet floors or uneven surfaces in stores, injuries from poor maintenance like broken handrails or stairs, swimming pool drownings or diving accidents due to lack of fencing or supervision, dog bites on the owner’s property, and injuries from falling objects in stores. Inadequate security leading to assaults in apartment complexes or parking lots is also a major category, as are injuries from snow and ice that was not cleared.

Yes, claims are often denied for specific reasons. Common causes include lack of coverage for the peril (e.g., flood damage without flood insurance), failure to pay premiums, misrepresentation on the application, or damage deemed to be from wear and tear or lack of maintenance. Policies also exclude intentional damage. Denials typically come with an explanation citing the specific policy language that supports the decision.