Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims for Motorcycle Riders
When the Other Driver’s Insurance Is Trash, Yours Should Have Your Back
You got hit. You’re hurt. The hospital bills are stacking up, your bike’s wrecked, and the other driver?
Turns out they’ve got no insurance—or barely enough to cover a dented fender.
Now what?
That’s where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) comes in. And if you’re a biker, this coverage is one of the most important parts of your policy.
At The Biker Lawyers, we’ve helped riders just like you recover what they’re owed—even when the other driver couldn’t pay a damn dime.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM)?
UM kicks in when the other driver:
- Has no insurance at all
- Flees the scene in a hit-and-run
- Is unidentifiable (like a phantom vehicle)
It’s your backup plan when the other guy ghosts you—literally or financially.
What Is Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM)?
UIM kicks in when the other driver has insurance, but not nearly enough.
Let’s say your medical bills are $150,000 and their policy only covers $25,000. Once their limit’s tapped out, your UIM policy fills the gap—up to your own limits.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About UM/UIM Claims for Bikers
Click the (+) on any of the questions below.What’s the difference between uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured covers you when the other driver has no insurance. Underinsured helps when they have some, but not enough to cover your damages.
Does UM/UIM coverage apply in hit-and-run accidents?
Yes. If the at-fault driver flees or can’t be found, UM usually applies—treating it like an uninsured crash.
What if my own insurance company won’t pay my UM/UIM claim?
You may have a bad faith claim. We can take them to court to get what you’re owed—and possibly even more in penalties.
How much UM/UIM should I carry?
As much as you can afford. A $250,000 minimum is recommended for riders. The more coverage, the more protection if the other driver can’t pay.
Can I still sue the other driver even if I get UM/UIM coverage?
Yes, but if they have no assets or insurance, it may not be worth it. We’ll help you decide the best route to recover.
What if the crash was partially my fault?
In Iowa and Minnesota, you can still recover if you're not more than 50% at fault. UM/UIM coverage may still apply depending on the situation.
Why It’s So Important for Bikers
Car drivers might walk away from a crash with a sore neck. Bikers often get:
- Broken bones
- Surgeries
- Permanent injuries
- Months off work
- Bikes totaled beyond repair
If the other driver can’t cover your losses, and you don’t have UM/UIM, you could be left eating tens of thousands of dollars.
Can I Still File a Claim If the Other Driver Is Unknown or Fled the Scene?
Yes.
Hit-and-run crashes often fall under uninsured motorist claims, because legally, that driver is treated the same as someone with no insurance at all.
We’ll help you file that claim and make sure your own insurance company treats you right—because yes, they can be just as shady.
Related Resources
What If My Own Insurance Denies the UM/UIM Claim?
That’s where we come in.
Just because you’re filing with your own policy doesn’t mean your insurer’s gonna play fair. We’ve had to take our clients’ insurance companies to court when they dragged their feet, lowballed, or denied valid claims.
Your insurance company is not your friend once a claim is filed. We are.
Posted on June 16, 2020 at 3:13 PM, UPDATED July 28, 2025 at 11:00 AM by The Biker Lawyers