Attorney Derek J. Spada of Basch Keegan & Spada recently secured the full insurance policy limit for a client who suffered serious injuries after being hit by a negligent driver. While this was the maximum amount available from the at-fault driver’s insurance policy, Derek believes our client deserved significantly more based on the severity of her injuries.
So why didn’t she receive a higher settlement?
Unfortunately, the negligent driver carried minimal insurance coverage. Our client did not have Supplemental Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (SUM/UM) coverage on her own auto policy, which left her with no additional source of compensation.
What Is SUM/UM Coverage?
SUM/UM coverage is designed to protect you when the other driver doesn't have enough (or any) insurance. If you're injured in an accident caused by a driver with low policy limits—or none at all—SUM/UM coverage on your own policy makes up the difference.
In this case, had our client carried SUM/UM coverage, Derek would have pursued additional compensation through her own insurance policy. That would have provided our client with the financial support she needed—and deserved—after such a traumatic experience.
Derek Did Everything Possible—But the System Has Limits
Derek fought to recover every dollar available under the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. There was simply no more coverage or assets to obtain. While we are proud of the outcome and the hard work that went into securing a full policy limit, we also know it wasn’t enough to compensate our client for the pain, suffering, and long-term consequences she will face.
Check the SUM/UM Limits On Your Insurance Policy
This case is a powerful reminder of the importance of reviewing your own auto insurance policy. SUM/UM coverage is often a low cost item to add or increase—and can make all the difference if you're ever in a serious accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
At Basch Keegan & Spada, we want our clients to protect themselves before accidents happen.
If you are not sure what kind of coverage you have, we encourage you to contact your insurance agent today. And if you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident and need legal representation, call (845) 251-4545 or contact us online for a free consultation.