What happens if you’re hit by a driver with no insurance? Or if their policy barely covers your hospital bills? Would your own insurance step in to help—or would you be left paying out of pocket?

These are questions many Spartanburg drivers don’t think about until after a crash. But understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) before an accident happens can make a huge difference. As a Spartanburg car accident lawyer, I’ve seen how this coverage can protect people from serious financial stress after an unexpected collision.

What Is UM/UIM Coverage?

UM/UIM coverage helps when the driver who caused your accident doesn’t have enough—or any—insurance to pay for your injuries and losses.

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies if the at-fault driver has no insurance at all.
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage applies if their policy limits don’t cover the full cost of your damages.

Without this protection, you could end up relying on your savings or health insurance to pay for medical bills, vehicle repairs, or lost wages caused by someone else’s negligence.

Why It Matters for South Carolina Drivers

In South Carolina, far too many drivers carry only the state minimum insurance—or none at all. Having UM/UIM coverage ensures that you aren’t the one who pays for their mistakes. Here’s why this coverage matters:

• It helps cover medical bills, lost income, and property damage.
• It protects everyone in your car, not just the policyholder.
• It gives you financial stability when the other driver can’t pay.

From I-85 to Highway 9, accidents happen every day in Spartanburg, SC. UM/UIM coverage helps you recover without added financial strain.

How UM/UIM Coverage Works in South Carolina

South Carolina law requires Uninsured Motorist coverage, but Underinsured Motorist coverage is optional. Adding it to your policy can make all the difference after a serious crash. Here’s how it works:

• File a claim under your UM/UIM policy if the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough—or doesn’t exist.
• Check your policy limits to see how much protection you have.
• Work with a lawyer to ensure your insurer handles the claim fairly and pays what you’re entitled to.

Common Questions About UM/UIM Coverage

What if I’m partially at fault?

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages if you’re less than 50% at fault.

Can I use my health insurance instead?

Health insurance may help with medical bills, but UM/UIM coverage is designed for all accident-related losses, including lost wages and pain and suffering.

Does it apply in a hit-and-run?

Yes. UM coverage can apply if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, as long as it’s properly reported to police and your insurance company.

Talk with a Spartanburg, SC Car Accident Lawyer

After a crash with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your insurance company may not make things easy. At the Law Office of Tyler Rody, we help clients in Spartanburg and throughout South Carolina navigate UM/UIM claims and pursue the compensation they’re owed.

‍Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your coverage, handle the legal details, and help you move forward after an accident.