Peoria Injury Attorney Encourages Drivers to Buy Insurance

It may sound counterintuitive for a Peoria injury law firm that battles insurance companies every day to advocate for drivers to buy insurance, but the reality is that insurance companies are supposed to protect people from financial ruin. Of course, we know that sometimes they care more about making a profit than actually serving their purpose, but we still recommend that people buy as much insurance as they can afford. 

Why Illinois Drivers Should Buy Auto Insurance

With the costs of healthcare skyrocketing, it’s easy to exceed policy limits after a car accident– especially if the at-fault driver has minimum liability insurance coverage. Fortunately, automobile insurance companies in Illinois offer UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage. Drivers can purchase this insurance to protect themselves against other drivers that are not carrying enough insurance, or in some cases have no insurance at all. 

For example, let’s say that you are involved in an auto accident and the other driver is at fault.  You’re taken by scene from the ambulance to the emergency room. At the emergency room, they do some tests, including a CT scan or two.  Believe it or not, you probably have already reached about $15,000 in medical bills. If you need additional doctor visits, physical therapy, injections, medication, and/or surgery, then your medical bills will only continue to increase. Additionally, you may miss time from work and be unable to earn money. If the other driver has policy limits of $25,000 or even $50,000, it may not come close to covering your damages. You can protect yourself and your family by getting UM/UIM coverage to make sure that all of your damages are recovered after an accident that wasn’t your fault. 

One important thing to know is that your UM/UIM coverage must exceed the policy limits of the at-fault driver. For instance, if the at-fault driver has a $50,000 policy limit, your UM/UIM coverage limit needs to be higher than $50,000. Ideally, if you can afford it, an umbrella policy with UM/UIM coverage would be a great option to protect you and your loved ones. 

Unfortunately, accidents happen and are a part of life. You can minimize the financial risk of a catastrophic injury by purchasing the most insurance coverage you can afford. Buying more insurance may cost a little more up front, but if you ever need it you will be glad you made that decision.

If you have been involved in an auto accident, call Strong Law Offices so we can help you navigate this difficult situation and make sure that we can maximize your recovery.