You parked in an end spot at a crowded sporting event to avoid surrounding cars. Hours later, you return to find your vehicle sideswiped, with no witnesses or notes left behind. After filing a police report, you realize it’s unlikely you will find the other driver. This incident raises an important question: Will your auto insurance cover the damage if the driver is unidentifiable?
Scenarios like this one are more common than most realize. Research shows that about 11% of serious accidents and 20% of fatal accidents in the United States involve a driver who flees the scene, underscoring how common hit-and-run incidents are. Meanwhile, about one in three U.S. drivers (33.4%) were either uninsured or underinsured in 2023, and 15.4% were entirely uninsured, according to a 2025 Insurance Research Council report.
Many believe their auto insurance covers these damages. Still, standard liability only covers harm caused to others, not what others do to you. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is crucial for financial protection in cases where the at-fault driver is absent.
What Happens When the At-Fault Driver Can’t Be Found?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver leaves the scene after causing damage or injury. Without identifying that driver, the traditional insurance process collapses. Your insurer has no one to pursue for reimbursement. Without UM protection, you may be responsible for the costs yourself.
Common losses in these situations include:
- Vehicle repairs or total loss
- Medical expenses for injuries
- Lost wages during recovery
- Pain and suffering damages
If the at-fault driver can’t be located, UM coverage steps in to protect your finances when no one else can, providing a much-needed sense of security in uncertain situations.
What Is UM/UIM Coverage and How Does It Work?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or can’t be identified in a hit-and-run event. It covers bodily injuries to you and your passengers and may also include property damage, depending on the specific terms of your policy.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage offers additional protection when the at-fault driver’s limits aren’t high enough to cover your losses.
In Connecticut, UM and UIM protections are combined under one coverage line. This protection extends beyond driving — covering you as a pedestrian, passenger, or cyclist.
Typical UM/UIM benefits include:
- Medical bills for you and your passengers
- Compensation for lost wages
- Payment for pain and suffering
- Property damage reimbursement (if included in your policy)
The Insurance Information Institute reports that in Connecticut, about 11.8% of drivers are uninsured, adding financial risks to everyday trips. A much larger percentage of drivers have state minimum limits, which are usually inadequate in all but the most minor accidents. It’s essential to understand UM/UIM coverage to stay protected on the road.
Why Standard Auto Insurance May Not Be Enough
Many drivers only carry the minimum coverage required by law. Those limits may protect others from your mistakes, but they don’t protect you from someone else’s. Without UM/UIM coverage, a serious hit-and-run can lead to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.
Consider the potential expenses:
- Emergency medical care can easily exceed $10,000
- Vehicle repairs often run several thousand dollars
- Lost wages and physical therapy can add up quickly
In Connecticut, you have the option to enhance your UM coverage by doubling its limit or adding conversion coverage. Conversion coverage is designed to enhance your benefits by adding your limit of coverage in addition to the other party’s limit when the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance. These additional coverage options are often more economical than people anticipate.
How To Review and Strengthen Your UM Coverage
Take control of your financial safety by regularly reviewing your insurance coverage and making necessary adjustments. Most drivers don’t think about UM coverage until it’s too late. A quick policy review can prevent unpleasant surprises later.
Ask your agent:
- Are my UM/UIM limits equal to or double my liability limits?
- Does my policy cover both bodily injury and property damage?
- Can I add conversion coverage for full protection?
- Does my UM coverage extend to passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists?
- Do I understand how the claims process works?
As your agent, we will help identify coverage gaps and strengthen your policy for long-term peace of mind.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
A hit-and-run can occur anywhere, leaving you vulnerable to financial loss if the other driver vanishes. With many Connecticut drivers uninsured, it’s vital to review your UM/UIM coverage. Contact Brooks, Todd & McNeil for a personalized policy review to ensure you’re adequately protected.
FAQ About UM Coverage
Does the law require UM coverage?
Requirements vary by state. In Connecticut, UM coverage is required and included in every auto policy. Other states may allow drivers to waive it, but doing so is never wise.
Does UM coverage include hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists?
Yes. UM coverage often protects you even when you’re not in your car, such as when you’re walking, riding a bike, or traveling as a passenger.
How much UM coverage should I carry?
It’s best to match or double your UM limits to your liability limits. Your agent can help determine the right amount.
What’s the difference between UM and UIM coverage?
UM covers accidents caused by drivers with no insurance. UIM coverage protects you when the other driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your full losses.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community policies from a variety of providers. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.