Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Georgia?

The answer is no, uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Georgia. But that answer comes with a large warning: This type of coverage may be your only financial protection if someone with no insurance causes a wreck, damages your vehicle and injures you or your passengers. 

Drivers in Georgia may not fully realize the importance of uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. While state law requires all insurers to offer these policies, many motorists remain unsure about what their protection encompasses and whether Georgia mandates uninsured motorist coverage. 

If you’re curious about the laws for mandatory auto insurance in Georgia and what uninsured car insurance entails, this guide has you covered! 

Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Georgia 

So, does Georgia require uninsured motorist coverage? According to state laws, uninsured car insurance is not part of the legally required vehicle coverage in the Peach State. However, it is an optional component of auto insurance policies.  

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) is designed to protect drivers in the event of an accident with a motorist who does not have insurance or whose insurance limits are insufficient to cover the damages incurred.  

This coverage can provide significant support should you be in an accident where the at-fault driver belongs to one of the following categories: 

• The at-fault driver is uninsured, meaning they have no car insurance to cover medical expenses or property damage.  

• You are involved in a hit-and-run accident where the other driver flees the scene and cannot be identified, leaving you without a liable party to claim against.  

• The responsible driver has an inadequate insurance policy that prevents them from meeting the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, or property repairs.  

While uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is not a requirement in Georgia, insurance companies are legally obligated to present this option to policyholders when they renew or get a new policy. This gives you the chance to consider it for your protection! 

What are the Benefits of Opting for UM Coverage? 

Let’s say you are cruising down Peachtree Street in Atlanta when suddenly someone in a big truck runs a red light and hits your right front end. You spin around and wind up on the grass. Meanwhile, the truck speeds off down a side street. You didn’t get a license plate number and your vehicle is smashed. How will you pay for repairs and the costs of getting your whiplashed neck looked at by a doctor? 

Investing in UM coverage allows you to secure compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and other related losses that arise from an accident with an uninsured motorist.  

This proactive measure not only safeguards your financial well-being but also provides peace of mind on the road, knowing that you have a layer of protection should the unexpected happen. 

Making an Informed Decision on Uninsured Motorist Coverage 

To help you make the right decisions regarding uninsured motorist coverage in Georgia, it is crucial to consider a few key things: 

• The medical expenses that may arise after an accident, such as emergency care, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. 

• Will the accident impact your income? Being unable to work due to injuries can shake up your financial stability. 

• Your overall financial picture, including savings, debts, and everyday expenses, to see how much coverage you can comfortably afford. 

• Can your UM car insurance limits match the extent of your liability coverage? This is a great way to ensure security in an accident with an uninsured driver.  

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if UM or UIM is right for your situation. It may be helpful to know that it is relatively cheap for the protection it offers. The average cost for this add-on is 3-5% of your total premium. For a policy that costs $600, that is $30 extra dollars.  

Other Types of Auto Insurance to Consider in Georgia 

While uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is optional, drivers must be aware of other types of Georgia mandatory auto insurance that address different aspects of vehicle protection. If you’re unsure which types of car insurance suit specific driving situations, below are other types of vehicle coverage you should consider as a motorist in Georgia. 

Liability Insurance 

Most people picture liability insurance when they think of car insurance. This coverage kicks in when you’re found at fault for an accident, taking care of the other driver’s medical expenses and any property damage that might have occurred, up to your policy limits. Note that your liability insurance doesn’t cover your medical bills or vehicle repairs, no matter the circumstances.  

Collision Insurance 

Collision insurance covers repairs when your vehicle collides with another car or a stationary object like a tree or guardrail. Unlike liability insurance, collision insurance ensures your vehicle is protected, no matter who’s at fault in the accident. However, someone must be driving your car at that time for the coverage to apply.  

Comprehensive Insurance 

Comprehensive insurance offers an even wider range of protection for your vehicle. It takes care of damage from incidents such as theft, vandalism, fire, and even natural disasters like floods or hurricanes.  

It keeps your vehicle safe even when it’s not being driven, giving you peace of mind against unexpected events that could arise in Georgia that cause damage or loss. 

Make Sure You’re Protected on Georgia Roads with Auto Insurance 

Saving money on insurance premiums may sound great, but choosing reduced coverage can have serious and upsetting consequences for you and your family. If something unexpected happens—like a big accident—you could discover that the financial help you need to get back on your feet is inadequate, affecting your family’s comfort and peace of mind.  

Luckily, with Velox Insurance, you won’t have to navigate these insurance decisions alone. Whether you come from the charming corners of Savannah, the vibrant streets of Atlanta or a more rural location, we are here to simplify the process of comparing quotes, discovering coverage, and getting on the road with confidence.  

Check us out today using our online quote tool, stop by one of our local offices, or call us at (855) 468-3569!