Why UM/UIM Coverage Matters for DFW Drivers

How Common Are Uninsured Drivers in Texas and DFW?

Despite Texas law requiring drivers to carry auto insurance, many motorists remain uninsured or underinsured, creating serious risks for others on the road.

In Texas, approximately 20% of drivers are uninsured, meaning roughly one in five motorists does not carry the legally required liability coverage. In large metropolitan areas like Dallas–Fort Worth, this risk is heightened due to population density, heavy commuter traffic, and frequent roadway congestion.

Dallas County has historically reported uninsured driver rates that exceed the national average, placing local drivers at a greater risk of being involved in a collision with someone who lacks adequate insurance coverage.

These numbers matter because they directly increase the likelihood that a crash could leave you without a reliable source of financial compensation.

What Happens When You Are Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver?

Being involved in an accident is stressful on its own. That stress increases significantly when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough coverage to pay for the damage they caused.

Without UM/UIM coverage, you may face:

• No insurance coverage for your medical bills, even though you were not at fault
• Limited or no compensation for vehicle damage unless you carry collision coverage
• Out-of-pocket expenses for lost wages if injuries prevent you from working
• The burden of pursuing the at-fault driver personally through legal action

In many cases, uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay for damages, even if a lawsuit is successful. As a result, accident victims may be left paying for medical treatment, vehicle repairs, and other losses on their own.

What Is UM/UIM Coverage and How Does It Work?

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

Uninsured Motorist coverage applies when an at-fault driver has no insurance at all. In these situations, your own insurance policy steps in to provide compensation as though the other driver were insured, up to your policy limits.

UM coverage may help pay for:

• Medical expenses for you and your passengers
• Lost income due to accident-related injuries
• Pain and suffering, depending on policy terms
• Vehicle repairs if Uninsured Motorist Property Damage coverage is included

What Is UM/UIM Coverage and How Does It Work?

Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage

Underinsured Motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to fully cover your damages.

For example, if a driver carries only minimum liability coverage and your medical expenses exceed those limits, UIM coverage can help bridge the gap by providing additional compensation, up to your policy limits.

Protection When the Other Driver Has No Insurance

With up to one in five Texas drivers uninsured, UM coverage helps ensure you are not financially penalized for another driver’s failure to follow the law.

Coverage When Insurance Limits Fall Short

Many drivers carry only the minimum liability coverage required by Texas law. UIM coverage helps protect you when those limits are not enough to cover serious injuries or long-term medical care.

Reduced Need for Lawsuits

UM/UIM coverage allows you to seek compensation through your own insurance policy instead of pursuing a lengthy, expensive, and uncertain legal battle against an uninsured or underinsured driver.

Coverage for Hit-and-Run Accidents

In many cases, uninsured motorist coverage applies to hit-and-run accidents, providing financial protection even when the at-fault driver cannot be identified.

Affordable Financial Security

Compared to the potential costs of medical treatment, lost income, and vehicle repairs, UM/UIM coverage is typically affordable and offers substantial peace of mind.

“I am a safe driver, so I do not need it.”

Even the safest drivers cannot control the actions of others. Distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior remain common causes of serious accidents.

“My health insurance will cover everything.”

Health insurance does not cover property damage, lost wages, or pain and suffering. UM/UIM coverage fills these critical gaps.

“It costs too much.”

In most cases, the additional premium for UM/UIM coverage is minimal compared to the financial protection it provides.

Why UM/UIM Coverage Is Especially Important in DFW

The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex sees millions of drivers on the road every day. Heavy commuter traffic, ongoing construction, and frequent congestion increase the likelihood of accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists.

UM/UIM coverage ensures you are protected regardless of the financial responsibility or insurance status of the other driver.