When examining the minimums required by Pennsylvania State law concerning auto insurance, it is important to point out that drivers are not required to carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to kick in in the event you are struck by a driver who either does not have insurance or who flees the scene and is not apprehended. Unfortunately, a significant amount of drivers on Pennsylvania roadways are uninsured, and it is strongly encouraged that all drivers purchase this type of coverage to help recover compensation in the event they are struck by an uninsured driver.
Underinsured motorist coverage. Underinsured motorist coverage is designed to help in the event the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits are not sufficient enough to cover your injury or property damage expenses. For example, if the other driver carries the minimum of $15,000 of bodily injury liability coverage, but you sustain $25,000 worth of medical expenses, underinsured motorist coverage would kick in to pay the additional $10,000.
Even though uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages are not required in Pennsylvania, we strongly encourage every person to consider adding these to their policy. Even if a driver in Pennsylvania has no-fault insurance, the medical benefits minimums are only $5,000. Having uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is still a good idea.