Do you have enough auto insurance coverage?

What happens if you are in a wreck without sufficient automobile insurance?  You become personally liable for damage that you cause.  That could financially wreck all but the weathiest of people with medical expenses for a hospitalization easily going into six figures.  Insurance doesn't just protect you when you are at fault.  Virginia automobile insurance also includes underinsured motorist coverage.  That's coverage on your policy to protect you from another driver who has inadequate insurance.  So how does it work?

Not a pleasant thought, but assume you or a family member are a victim of a drunk driving collision.  The drunk driver has only $30,000 in insurance coverage, but your medical bills and lost wages far exceed his coverage.  Additionally, you miss time from work so your family is suffering financially and you have to go through a difficult recovery.  $30,000 does very little to help you.  However, if you have $300,000 in coverage on your policy your insurance company will pick up the difference between $30K and $300k meaning your insurer may pay you an additional $270,000.  

You ask why should you have to use your insurance which will raise your rates, right?  Actually under Virginia law the insurance company can't raise your premiums for a collisiton that is not your fault.  Your insurer will pursue the drunk driver for reimbursement so the drunk driver isn't off the hook and you get compensated.  

Bottom line it is too late to raise your coverage after the collision so call your insurer today.  If you need a recommendation on an excellent agent, I use McClenny Insurance Agency and I receive amazing service and my premiums dropped when I switched to McClenny a few years ago.  You will be surprised how little it costs to raise your premiums.