Auto · Originally published December 23, 2014 · Updated November 2026
Most of your auto policy is built around damage you might cause to other people. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage flips that around. It's the part of your policy that steps in when someone else causes a wreck and doesn't have enough insurance, or any insurance, to cover your injuries.
If you've ever looked at your declarations page and wondered what "UM" and "UIM" mean, this is the short version.
Uninsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no liability insurance at all. It also commonly applies in hit-and-run situations where the other driver can't be identified, though the details depend on your policy.
UM bodily injury coverage can help pay for things like:
Missouri is an at-fault state, which means the driver who causes a crash is responsible for the damage. That system works well when the at-fault driver is insured. When they aren't, your own UM coverage is often the most practical way to get your injuries paid for.
Underinsured motorist coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their limits are too low to cover your injuries.
Here's a simple example. A driver carrying 25/50/25 limits runs a red light on Glenstone and hits you. Their policy pays up to $25,000 for your injuries. If your medical bills and lost wages add up to more than that, UIM coverage can help with the difference, up to your own UIM limit.
Serious injuries can get expensive quickly, so minimum limits on the other driver's policy may not go very far. UIM is designed for exactly that gap.
The rules are different depending on where your car is insured:
Required minimums are a floor, not a recommendation. Many drivers choose UM/UIM limits that match their own liability limits.
It's worth knowing the limits of this coverage:
If you ride a motorcycle, the same idea applies there too. See uninsured and underinsured coverage for motorcycles.
Raising UM/UIM limits is often one of the more affordable ways to strengthen a policy, because you're protecting yourself and your passengers rather than paying for someone else's losses. If you have health insurance with a high deductible, a family that rides with you, or a job you can't afford to miss, it's worth a look. For a deeper dive on Missouri rules, read uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in Missouri.
If you're not sure what your current UM and UIM limits are, call us at 417.865.4800 and we'll walk through your policy with you. You can also learn more about our auto insurance options.
In many cases, yes, but policies handle hit-and-run claims differently. Report the crash to police right away and read your policy's UM section or ask your agent.
Missouri requires uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. Underinsured coverage is listed separately, so check your declarations page to see if your policy includes it.
Yes. Oklahoma insurers must offer it, and you can decline it only by signing a written rejection.
Or send your details and an agent will call you back. Most auto quotes are finished on one call, and you can buy before you hang up.