Uninsured Motorist Coverage in West Virginia
West Virginia has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the United States. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you and your passengers when you're hit by a driver who has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
What's Covered
- Your medical bills after being hit by an uninsured driver
- Your passengers' medical expenses
- Lost wages if you're injured and can't work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Vehicle repair (with UIMBI coverage)
- Hit-and-run accidents
Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Critical in West Virginia
West Virginia consistently ranks among the top 10 states for uninsured drivers, with an estimated 10–15% of WV drivers carrying no insurance at all. If one of these drivers hits you, their liability insurance won't pay your bills — because they don't have any. Without UM coverage, you'd have to pay your own medical bills and vehicle repair costs, or pursue the uninsured driver in court (often fruitless if they have no assets).
Types of Uninsured Motorist Coverage
There are two types of UM coverage: Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI) covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering when an uninsured driver injures you. Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) covers damage to your vehicle caused by an uninsured driver. Both types are available in West Virginia, and AG Insurance recommends carrying both.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their limits aren't enough to cover your damages. For example, if you're seriously injured and have $100,000 in medical bills, but the at-fault driver only has $25,000 in liability coverage, your UIM coverage pays the remaining $75,000 (up to your UIM limits). This coverage is especially important given WV's low minimum liability requirements.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do You Need?
Insurance professionals recommend matching your UM/UIM limits to your liability limits. If you carry 100/300/100 liability, carry the same in UM/UIM coverage. At minimum, carry the state minimum UM limits. The cost of UM/UIM coverage is relatively modest — typically $50–$150 per year — making it one of the best values in auto insurance.
Does UM Coverage Apply to Hit-and-Run Accidents?
Yes. In West Virginia, uninsured motorist coverage typically applies to hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. If you're hit by a driver who flees the scene, your UM coverage will pay for your medical bills and vehicle damage (if you have UMPD), subject to your deductible and policy limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Pages
Add Uninsured Motorist Coverage — Get a Free Quote
AG Insurance compares 100+ companies to find you the best rate in West Virginia.
