Last Updated September 19, 2026
Short answer
UM/UIM coverage may apply when an at-fault driver has no insurance, insufficient insurance, or in certain hit-and-run situations. Whether coverage is available depends on the policy, any valid rejection or coverage selection, and applicable state law. Prompt notice to the insurer may also be important.
A crash with an uninsured driver is still a crash. Your own automobile policy may provide another source of coverage when the at-fault driver is uninsured or does not have enough insurance. Hit-and-run facts, phantom vehicles, and stacked policies are contract questions. See car accidents and dealing with insurance. Alabama and Georgia both regulate UM, but the details differ. Read the state hubs.
Why an Early Settlement Can Affect UM/UIM Coverage
Policy language and state law can affect what must happen before an insured settles with or releases the at-fault driver. Before signing a release, the available UM/UIM coverage and any applicable notice or consent requirements should be reviewed.
How Brock & Stout can help
We read the policies, give required notices, and pursue UM or UIM when it applies. Call or request a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Personal injury claims are subject to filing deadlines, and the deadline that applies can depend on the facts of the case. Different notice requirements may apply depending on who is involved. Do not use this website to calculate a filing deadline. Speak with an attorney promptly.
Related resources
- Alabama Personal Injury Law — Alabama Personal Injury Law
Alabama personal injury claims are generally governed by Alabama law. In many ordinary-negligence cases, contributory negligence can bar recovery if the injured person is found to have contributed to the injury. Georgia uses a different fault system.
- Car Accident Injury Claims — Car Accident Injury Claims
If another driver’s negligence caused a crash, you may have a claim against that driver and available insurance. Your own policy can also matter, including uninsured motorist coverage. This page does not calculate a filing deadline or a settlement value.
- Dealing With Insurance After an Injury — Dealing With Insurance After an Injury
You usually must cooperate with your own insurer. The other company’s adjuster does not work for you. Recorded statements, medical authorizations, and early settlement offers can affect the claim. Get advice before you guess about fault or future medical care.
- Georgia Personal Injury Law — Georgia Personal Injury Law
Georgia generally uses modified comparative fault. An injured person’s damages may be reduced by that person’s percentage of fault, and recovery is generally barred if the injured person is 50 percent or more at fault under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33. Alabama uses a different fault system.
Injured and not sure what to do next?
Call now or request a free case evaluation. We can review what happened and explain options. We cannot promise a particular result.
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This page is general educational information about personal injury claims as of the date shown. It is not legal advice, does not create an attorney-client relationship, and does not guarantee a result. Facts, insurance coverage, and state law vary. Do not use this website to calculate a filing deadline. Personal Injury Knowledge Center
