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Butler Personal Injury Law Blog

For decades, Conlon Tarker, P.C. has fought for injured individuals and families in Butler, Pennsylvania, delivering honest guidance and proven personal injury representation when it matters most.

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Jul 01, 2026

by Conlon Tarker P.C.

| Car Accidents

Understanding Underinsured Motorist Coverage After a Crash

While uninsured motorist insurance covers you if the other driver has no insurance, many are unaware of underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. UIM coverage applies to you, your passengers, and members of your household. UIM coverage may be triggered if the other driver has insufficient coverage to cover lost wages and medical bills. UIM claims will be filed with your own insurer, with stacking allowed for certain policies. If you have questions about UIM coverage, speak with our Butler County car accident attorneys today.

When Does UIM Coverage Apply?

If you purchase UIM insurance, you must carry a minimum of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. These are the same minimum bodily injury liability limits required under the law. While some believe it to be a waste of money, UIM insurance can apply in the following circumstances:

  • If you are involved in an accident with a driver who carries less than the minimum liability limits as required by state law.
  • If you or your passengers’ damages exceed your personal injury protection (PIP) limits.
  • If your passengers’ damages exceed the at-fault driver’s liability insurance.

What Does UIM Insurance Cover?

Pennsylvania UIM insurance covers the following accident-related expenses:

  • Ambulatory services
  • Hospitalizations
  • Surgeries and/or procedures
  • Rehabilitative therapies
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability
  • Home modifications

Does Pennsylvania Require Drivers to Purchase UIM Insurance?

While the Commonwealth does not require drivers to purchase UIM coverage, insurance companies must offer it to policyholders. To decline coverage, you will need to sign a written waiver. UIM coverage does not apply to vehicle repairs, but only to bodily injury claims.

Stacking UM/UIM Coverage Under PA Law

Stacking of UM/UIM policies allows you to multiply your total coverage by the number of vehicles on your policy. This can be invaluable when you suffer a serious or catastrophic injury, with stacking allowing you to cover the cost of surgeries, treatments, and other rehabilitative therapies. If stacking policies do not provide enough coverage, then you may consider filing a civil suit against the at-fault driver. If you are unsure of the right course of action, our legal team is happy to assist you.

Your Own Insurer May Dispute Your Claim

Even though you have paid your UIM premium for years, your auto insurer may dispute the value of your claim. Insurance companies are in the business of making a profit, so they will conduct a thorough investigation to disavow your damages. This will involve evaluating your medical records to question the severity of your injuries. As always, our car accident lawyers are prepared to provide the necessary advocacy to help you obtain fair compensation.

Hit by an Underinsured Driver? Speak with Our Butler County Car Accident Lawyers Today

If an underinsured driver has hit you, know that you have several options to recover compensation. If you carry UIM insurance in Pennsylvania, then you can file a claim with your own insurer. At Conlon Tarker, P.C., we have helped numerous car accident victims recover just compensation and are ready to serve you. To arrange a free consultation with one of our Butler County car accident attorneys, contact us online or by calling (724) 285-7700 today.