Virginia VA Automobile Insurance Policy

Reader’s Question:

My agent has suggested to me that my automobile insurance policy should have a rider called an uninsured motorist provision. Aren’t all drivers forced to have insurance in Virginia? Why is this necessary or is he just trying to add a rider to my auto policy?

Lamar

Fredericksburg, VA

Hello Lamar,

You are correct that each operator of a motor vehicle in Virginia should be insured. What your agent is recommending does make sense. Unfortunately, many operators have auto insurance that is lacking in the amount of coverage. This “under insurance” could come back to haunt you. With today’s rising costs, auto policies have added this protective rider to protect you against a driver with low limits or a driver who is operating without insurance.

Generally the uninsured provision of your auto policy has two categories. Bodily injury and property damage in accidents involving an uninsured operator would be covered. The bodily injury provision covers medical expenses for yourself and your passengers.

Your auto policy would also cover damages to your vehicle resulting in an accident caused by an underinsured operator. As a matter of interest, the uninsured operator provision is not available in all states. Your agent is only watching out for your best interests. There are drivers who try to trim costs by lowering their coverage in their auto policy. We are glad you are not one of them, Lamar.