Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Claims in Ohio
UM/UIM Basics | What To Do After a Crash | Damages & Compensation | Disputes & Bad Faith | FAQ | Contact
Uninsured motorist (“UM”) and underinsured motorist (“UIM”) coverage can help protect you when the at-fault driver has no insurance, not enough insurance, or when a hit-and-run driver cannot be identified. These claims are often more complicated than people expect because they are made under your own policy and can involve strict notice requirements, documentation demands, and disputes over value.
At Triscaro & Associates, our Cleveland auto insurance claims lawyers help injured people and families pursue UM/UIM benefits and resolve disputes with insurance carriers throughout Cuyahoga County and Northeast Ohio.
Free, confidential consultation: Contact us online or call 440.248.8811. There is no attorney fee unless we recover for you.
What to Do After a Crash Involving an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver
- Get a crash report: Call police and obtain the report number as soon as possible.
- Document everything: Photos, witness names, vehicle info, and any communications.
- Seek medical care: Early documentation matters for both treatment and claims.
- Notify your insurer carefully: Many UM/UIM policies require prompt notice and may require consent before you settle.
- Don’t sign releases too early: A quick settlement can jeopardize UM/UIM rights.
Damages We Pursue in UM/UIM Claims
UM/UIM benefits are intended to help make you whole up to your policy limits. Depending on the facts, damages may include:
- Medical expenses (past and future), rehabilitation, and related care
- Lost income and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages, including funeral expenses (when applicable)
- Loss of consortium (in appropriate cases)
Understanding UM vs. UIM Coverage
UM coverage may apply when the at-fault driver has no insurance (and in certain hit-and-run scenarios). UIM coverage may apply when the at-fault driver’s policy limits are not enough to reasonably compensate you for your injuries. A key first step is reviewing your declarations page to confirm what coverages you purchased.
Common UM/UIM Matters We Handle
- Crashes involving uninsured drivers
- Crashes involving underinsured drivers (minimal limits)
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
When Your Own Insurance Company Disputes the Claim
In some cases, your own carrier may dispute liability, question the extent of injuries, delay the investigation, or undervalue damages. When that happens, we can pursue the steps necessary to enforce the policy and seek fair compensation.
In appropriate cases, an insurer’s unreasonable conduct may support additional remedies beyond the underlying accident damages. We also handle related insurance coverage disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage in Ohio?
UM coverage may apply when the at-fault driver has no liability insurance, or in certain hit-and-run situations. It is designed to help pay for losses such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering up to the limits of your policy.
What is underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage?
UIM coverage may apply when the at-fault driver has insurance, but the available limits are not enough to fairly compensate you for your injuries. UIM claims often involve strict timing requirements and careful documentation.
Do I have to notify my insurance company before settling with the other driver?
Often, yes. Many UM/UIM policies include notice and consent provisions. Settling without proper notice can jeopardize your UM/UIM claim. Talk to an attorney before signing releases or accepting a settlement.
What if my own insurer undervalues my UM/UIM claim?
If your insurer disputes value or delays the process, you may need counsel to enforce the policy and present evidence supporting the full value of your claim. Each case depends on the facts, policy language, and the insurer’s conduct.
What should I bring to a consultation about a UM/UIM claim?
Bring the crash report, photos, your auto policy declarations page, medical records/bills, wage-loss information, and any letters/emails from insurers. The earlier you preserve documents and timelines, the better.
Note: This page is general information and not legal advice. UM/UIM coverage and deadlines can depend on the specific policy language and facts.
Contact Triscaro & Associates for help with an uninsured/underinsured claim, or call 440.248.8811.
