Head on Accident Illustrates Need for UIM Coverage

Head-on accidents are probably the most feared aspect of driving.

Unfortunately Highway 2 delivers more head-on collisions than almost any road in the state.

Here’s how the Sky Valley Chronicle described a recent collision that killed the at-fault driver and sent seven people to the hospital:

The danger that lurks for drivers at any given time on U.S. Highway 2 through the Sky Valley was made manifest Thursday morning in a brutal head on collision in Gold Bar that shut the highway down for several hours….

The Sheriff’s Office filled in some of the details:

“The Ford Focus was headed westbound when it reportedly crossed the centerline and struck the Chrysler van head on. The male driver of the Ford Focus was pronounced dead at the scene. He was the only one in the Ford.”

The victims have claims against the at-fault driver’s estate. But their recovery is probably going to be limited to the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.

Typically auto liability insurance has two limits: one is per person and the other is per accident. For example, under a $100,000/$300,000 policy no victim could recover more than $100,000 and the at-fault driver’s insurance company would never have to pay out more than $300,000 regardless how many people were hurt (or how seriously they were hurt) in the accident.

Uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) is critical – particularly in accidents where there are a lot of victims. Purchase as much as you can afford. It’s one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family.