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by The Stoddard Firm - April 17th, 2025
If you’ve been in a car accident and you’re wondering how does uninsured motorist coverage work , you’re not alone. Many Atlanta drivers find themselves confused about what this type of insurance actually covers and when it applies. At The Stoddard Firm, we know that dealing with the aftermath of a crash is overwhelming, especially when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance—or enough of it.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is a type of insurance that protects you when you’re injured in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have liability insurance. According to the Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire , Georgia law mandates that all drivers carry liability insurance, but not everyone complies. UM coverage is your financial backup plan.
UM coverage is optional in Georgia, but we strongly recommend it because, according to the Insurance Research Council, about 12% of Georgia drivers are uninsured. That number is even higher in urban areas like Atlanta, making UM protection particularly critical.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver has insurance, but it’s not enough to cover your damages.
For example:
Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right protection.
In Georgia, many accidents involve drivers who either:
Georgia’s minimum liability coverage ($25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident) often isn’t enough to cover serious injuries. That’s where UM/UIM coverage comes into play. Without it, you could be left paying out of pocket for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
UM coverage can help you recover damages for:
The Atlanta Bar Association explains that Georgia drivers can choose between “stacked” and “non-stacked” UM coverage , which affects how much you can claim. Stacked coverage lets you combine limits from multiple vehicles on your policy, increasing your total protection.
If you’re in a car accident and the other driver has no insurance, your UM coverage steps in to act as if it were their liability policy.
Here’s what typically happens:
If the other driver is underinsured:
This situation is common in serious injury cases where medical care and lost wages exceed the basic policy minimums.
It’s important to notify your insurer as soon as possible after an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
Steps to follow:
Keep in mind that your own insurer now becomes your “opponent” in negotiating compensation. That’s why it’s essential to have legal guidance early in the process.
Any Georgia driver who purchases auto insurance can opt into UM/UIM coverage. It’s not included automatically, so you must request it when you buy or renew your policy.
Also covered under your policy:
UM/UIM coverage can protect you in several situations:
To maximize your UM/UIM benefits, follow these steps:
It’s best to have a lawyer review your policy and assist with filing. Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce payouts.
Claim denials are common, even when they shouldn’t be. Reasons may include:
You have the right to challenge a denial. A skilled attorney can:
If an uninsured or underinsured driver has hit you in Atlanta, your recovery shouldn’t be limited by someone else’s lack of coverage. Insurance policies are complicated, and insurance companies often work against your interests.
At The Stoddard Firm, we handle car accident claims involving uninsured motorists every day. We know Georgia’s insurance laws and how to hold carriers accountable. Don’t leave money on the table—let us advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t try to navigate a denied claim or underpaid settlement alone. Call The Stoddard Firm today to schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta car accident lawyer who knows how to fight for you. We’re ready when you are.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who takes on major corporations and global insurers with virtually unlimited resources. Known for high-profile cases featured on Courtroom Viewing Network, this attorney is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, they work tirelessly to secure justice and deliver results.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
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Matthew Stoddard and his staff are wonderful people. This law firm is a no complication type of place. They always answer the phone without the hassle of going through 30 different people and always return emails just as quick as they are received. Thank you gentlemen for everything y’all do.
I went through one of the worst times of my life. When I decided to reach out to Matt it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He really is a genuine guy who cares about his clients. He worked hard for me and my family for 2 years until we were awarded a settlement we felt deserving! I could not recommend a better guy for your legal services!
Attorney Matthew Stoddard and his staff are awesome professionals. I contacted them with a problem, in my opinion he went above and beyond to assist me. He showed understanding and care and exceeded my expectations.
The Stoddard Firm did an excellent job in representing me in my case ! They went far and beyond to help me, even driving 4 hours to meet me multiple times as a client!!! I honestly felt like I was a member of their legal team and would recommend them to anyone in need of a great lawyer!!!
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
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