Uninsured motorist lawyer in Wentzville

Missouri sets a floor under every auto policy. Every liability policy has to carry at least 25/50 in coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage rides along at that same floor, by law. A serious injury can still cost more than that floor pays out. That gap is where UM and underinsured claims live.

The floor is built into your policy

Missouri’s minimum-coverage law sets the floor at 25/50/25, later cited as § 303.190. Uninsured motorist coverage has to match that same floor, at least, under § 379.203. Nobody has to shop for this coverage separately. It comes standard on a Missouri auto policy.

The gap shows up fast in a real injury

A broken bone, surgery, or weeks off work can add up quickly. A minimum-limits driver’s policy runs out long before those costs do. UM and underinsured coverage exist to close that specific gap. They don’t just replace a missing policy.

The counterparty is your own carrier

A UM claim points the payment request at your own company rather than theirs. That can feel strange after years of premiums. Treat it like any other insurance claim. Document everything. Answer only what you’re actually asked.

Tell your carrier early

Most policies require prompt notice once you know the other driver lacks enough coverage. Waiting too long can complicate the claim. A quick call or written notice protects your position. It commits you to nothing.

Where this connects to the rest of your claim

A hit-and-run often runs on this same coverage when nobody ever gets identified. The case-worth guide compiles the factors that shape the number either way, and the adjuster guide steers you through the conversation once your own carrier starts asking questions.

Every policy carries the floor. A bad enough injury finds the gap above it.