The Importance of Having New Hampshire Uninsured Motorist Coverage

There are many things that make the Granite State unique. One notable distinction is that New Hampshire is the only state in the union that does not have a compulsory insurance liability law—auto insurance is not required if the driver complies with alternative financial responsibility requirements.

According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately 11% of motorists in New Hampshire do not have auto insurance. The Council also found that nationally, one in six car accidents are caused by drivers without any kind of auto insurance.

For individuals who are injured in collisions with uninsured drivers, there is little if any chance of recovering compensation from them, as their lack of insurance is most often a direct result of a lack of any substantial assets from which a judgment could be satisfied.

Insurance – Uninsured Motorist Coverage

While New Hampshire law does not require that you purchase liability coverage, it does require that if you do purchase auto insurance you must also purchase Uninsured Motorist Coverage (“UM coverage”). NH RSA 264:15. UM coverage provides coverage should injuries result from an accident involving an at-fault uninsured driver, or a hit and run driver. It also protects against injuries caused by insured drivers whose coverage is less than your own. In New Hampshire, UM coverage must be provided at limits equal to your liability coverage.

When you’re in a collision with an uninsured driver, it is highly unlikely that the at-fault driver will have any assets that would be available to compensate you for your injuries and losses. After all, that’s likely the main reason they’re not carrying any insurance.

Who Does UM Coverage Protect?

With so many uninsured drivers on the road, it is a good idea to take a close look at your policy. The majority of UM insurance policies provide coverage in the following scenarios:

• You, both as a driver and a pedestrian
• You as a passenger in another car
• Your passengers
• Authorized drivers operating your car with your permission

Additionally, many UM policies will also cover any passengers riding with you when you drive someone else’s car with permission.

Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim

If you need to pursue a UM coverage claim against your own insurer, it is a good idea to speak to an attorney first. These claims are more complicated than standard car accident insurance claims and require in-depth knowledge of insurance and personal injury law. With an experienced attorney at your side, you are far more likely to get the compensation you need to pay your bills.

Bouchard, Kleinman & Wright, P.A.: New Hampshire Full Service Law Firm

For clients throughout New Hampshire, the attorneys at Bouchard, Kleinman & Wright, P.A. provide exceptional and personalized counsel in a number of areas critical to people’s everyday lives. Whether it be personal injury, medical malpractice, insurance, estate law, or property law, our attorneys are focused on effective representation that takes your specific and unique needs into account. Call (603) 623-7222 for a free consultation, and to learn more about how we can help you resolve your legal issues.

This article has been prepared by Bouchard Kleinman & Wright, P.A. for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

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