(864) 582-0416 It’s an unfortunate truth: roads are filled with drivers who carry too little insurance—or none at all. And when they cause an accident, they don’t have the money or coverage to pay for the harm they’ve done. The burden then falls on the innocent party. That’s where understanding your own auto insurance policy can be a financial lifesaver.
Uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Spartanburg can be dangerous. The law only requires drivers to carry a minimum of $25,000 in liability coverage. That’s the insurance used to pay for the injuries and damages suffered by someone the policyholder hits. The problem is, $25,000 barely makes a dent if you’ve suffered serious injuries, need surgery, or have to take time off work. We’ve seen too many car accident victims stuck with huge medical bills because the at-fault driver simply didn’t have enough insurance—or had none at all.
Here’s the good news: If your Spartanburg auto insurance policy includes Underinsured Motorist (UIM) or Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, you may be able to get compensated through your own insurer. These types of coverage are designed to help when the at-fault driver either doesn’t have enough or any insurance.
Even better? The state law allows something called stacking. Stacking lets you combine UIM or UM coverage from multiple vehicles in your household. That means more coverage for you—potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in protection, depending on how many vehicles are insured and at what limits.
For example, if you have three cars insured with $50,000 of UIM coverage each, and you’re seriously hurt in a wreck, you might be eligible to collect up to $150,000. That can really make a big difference in your recovery.
Now, here’s the part that surprises most people. First, even if you have the coverage, don’t expect your insurance company to volunteer to help. It won’t, because it wants to keep the money.
Then, when you file a UIM or UM claim, your own insurance company becomes your opponent. Even though you’ve paid your premiums for years, they’ll treat you like any other claimant—maybe worse. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible. That’s why these cases often end up needing legal help.
We’ve worked with Spartanburg drivers who found out too late that their insurance agent didn’t offer them UIM coverage the right way. In some cases, that means coverage can be legally imposed on your policy—but you need someone who knows what to look for.
If you haven’t been in a wreck yet, this is your sign to check your policy. If you don’t see UIM or UM listed, call your agent immediately and ask to add it. While you’re at it, consider increasing your liability coverage. You can’t buy more UIM or UM than you carry in liability. So the more liability you have, the more UIM and UM you can get. You can’t have enough UIM or UM coverage, because if you get hit by an underinsured or uninsured driver, you’ll be left holding the bag.
And here’s the kicker: It usually costs less than you’d think. The added peace of mind is worth it, especially if you or someone you love drives often or anywhere in the state.
Don’t panic—but don’t go it alone, either. These cases are tricky, and insurance companies know how to twist the facts. You might not even know what coverage is available unless someone experienced takes a close look. That’s why it’s worth talking to an attorney who knows the ins and outs of UIM and UM claims.
You can call us, fill out a contact form, or start a live chat from wherever you are. We’ll come to you if you’re too hurt.
Uninsured/underinsured car accidents in Spartanburg are difficult. You’ve got enough on your plate after a crash. Call Holland & Usry for a FREE case review and let us help you.
