When was the last time you took a close look at your car insurance policy? For many of us, it’s not a task that lands on the top of our to-do lists. However, understanding and regularly reviewing your car insurance is crucial for your financial and personal security. So, let’s take a moment to talk about why it’s essential to assess your car insurance and ask the right questions.
One of the easiest ways to start this process is by looking at your insurance card – the one you present every year when you get your car inspected. There you’ll find a phone number for your insurance agent. Call the agent and ask to review your policy. They understand all the nuances of coverage and can guide you on how much is appropriate for you in each category.
If you or a family member have been injured in a car accident contact Aversa & Linn for help in evaluating your claim.
1. Am I Protected from Someone Else’s Claim?
Liability Coverage: In many states, including Pennsylvania, liability coverage is mandatory. This coverage protects you against claims made by other individuals if you are at fault in an accident. The amount of coverage you need depends on your assets. In Pennsylvania, the minimum required coverage is relatively low, but if you have significant assets, such as a home, savings, or investments, it’s important to ensure that your liability coverage adequately protects you.
2. Am I Protected if I Have a Claim?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): UM/UIM coverage is designed to protect you in case you’re injured by a driver who either has no insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. The minimum limits in Pennsylvania are $15,000, an amount that hasn’t changed since the 1970s and is wholly inadequate to cover today’s expenses. Having this often overlooked aspect of car insurance in place can be a real lifesaver if you find yourself in a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
You should have the same maximum for Uninsured Motorist and Underinsured Motorist coverage to protect yourself against irresponsible drivers. The reality is that not everyone on the road carries insurance, and if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you could be left bearing the financial burden of medical bills and repairs if you have insufficient UM/UIM coverage.
Full Tort v. Limited Tort: Full coverage does not mean that you have full tort. If your policy is limited tort, then your ability to make a claim can be severely limited even if you are hurt. For more information, read our post here.
3. What Does $100,000/$300,000 Mean?
Car insurance policies often display coverage limits in a format like “100,000/300,000.” These numbers represent the maximum amount of coverage your policy provides. In this case, it means that your policy would cover up to $100,000 per person per accident and up to $300,000 in total if multiple people are involved in the accident.
In conclusion, keeping your car insurance policy up-to-date and in line with your current needs is crucial. It not only ensures that you’re adequately protected but also prevents you from paying for unnecessary coverage. So pick up that phone, call your agent, and take the time to review your car insurance today.
After a car accident, hiring an experienced attorney is essential to protect your interests and get the best possible outcome for your case. Contact Aversa & Linn for help in evaluating your claim.
