Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage

When purchasing auto insurance in Antioch, CA, some of our clients tell us that they don't want to opt for uninsured motorist coverage because they have health insurance. But, is this always good practice?

Just because you have health insurance today, doesn't mean you have health insurance tomorrow. If you have health coverage through your employer, you could lose that benefit the second you lose your job. If you need to switch your personal plan to a more affordable option, you could find that it has huge deductibles and a significant co-pay. If you are in a car accident that isn't your fault, you shouldn't have to cope with these expenses.

• Health insurance won't pay for lost wages or pain and suffering

Even if you have a great health insurance plan, you should still get uninsured motorist coverage because health insurance only pays for medical treatment. In a serious car accident, you are entitled to more than just medical treatment. If the driver doesn't have any coverage or enough insurance to compensate you, then uninsured motorist coverage will step in to help pay for lost wages and pain/suffering.

• Some doctors can refuse to see patients involved in a car accident claim

Some doctors on health insurance plans can refuse to see patients who are involved in an injury claim or lawsuit because they don't want to ever have to testify. While this may be rare, the doctor is allowed to choose who he/she will or won't see.

• How health insurance and uninsured motorist coverage can work together

Generally, more insurance is better than less insurance. In a car accident, you can present both your health and car insurance to the hospital billing department. Health insurance will cover your medical bills up to your limit. If the bills are higher because of a prolonged hospital stay or you need follow up care, your uninsured motorist coverage can step in to help. This coverage covers your medical care as well as the medical bills of the passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident.

When it comes to finding the right coverage, call the experts at Jack Stone Insurance Agency. We serve Brentwood, Antioch, and neighboring cities in California with reliable and comprehensive auto insurance policies. Open our auto insurance page in a new tab to read on!