What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance in Nevada? UM/UIM Questions Answered

If you are injured in a Nevada car crash and the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may be an important part of the claim. However, this coverage is optional, policy-specific, and often more complicated than drivers expect. Kristof Law Group helps drivers understand the available insurance layers, prepare claims carefully, and make informed decisions based on the facts of their individual situations.

What is uninsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage, commonly called UM coverage, may apply when the driver who caused an auto collision does not carry liability insurance. It can also be relevant in certain situations where the responsible vehicle or driver cannot be identified, such as in a hit and run.  It is the coverage on your policy that protects you if you are hurt by someone else. Your liability coverage does not protect you if you are injured.

Drivers are not required to buy UM/UIM coverage. Insurers must offer it when they issue an auto policy. A driver may accept the coverage or reject it. Most reject it, and that is a big mistake

What is underinsured motorist coverage

Underinsured motorist coverage, often called UIM coverage, may come into play when the at-fault driver has insurance, but that person’s available liability limit may not be enough to cover an injured person’s covered damages. For example, a serious car, truck, or motorcycle crash can produce medical expenses, lost income, and other losses that exceed a driver’s minimum liability policy.

Underinsured motorist coverage is not a guarantee of additional payment in every case. Its application may turn on the limits purchased, how the policy defines an underinsured vehicle, other available insurance, offsets, exclusions, consent-to-settle requirements, and other policy terms. That is why UM/UIM claim deserves a careful review instead of assumptions based on a policy label.

Does “full coverage” mean every loss is covered?

No. “Full coverage” is a misleading phrase we hear all the time.  It does not exist.  No policy covers every type of loss or every amount of loss.

The use of "full coverage" by your insurance agent creates difficult surprises after a crash. A policy may have separate limits for different types of coverage, deductibles, exclusions, vehicle-use restrictions, household-member provisions, notice requirements, or other conditions. Even a well-intentioned insurance representative’s description does not replace the policy itself.

Plesae ignore the phrase “full coverage.” Reviewing declarations pages, endorsements, exclusions, and coverage limits before a collision can make it easier to understand what protection may be available later.

When should I speak with a personal injury lawyer about UM/UIM?

Your lawywer should bring this up with you on your very first visit. It is important that you and your attorney are aware of all coverages that are available- especially when so many drivers are driving without insurance.

Kristof Law Group serves English and Spanish speaking clients. Our team can explain the process in clear, practical terms. We believe clients deserve careful preparation, direct communication, and an honest assessment of their options.  If you have questions, please give us a call. We are happy to help.

This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Insurance coverage and claim outcomes depend on the specific policy language, applicable law, and facts of each case.