Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims in Nevada
Why UM/UIM Coverage Matters in Nevada
Imagine being hit by another driver in Las Vegas. Your car is damaged, your body is injured, and you’re suddenly facing weeks or months of recovery. Now imagine discovering that the driver who caused the crash doesn’t have insurance — or doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your medical bills.
This isn’t just a nightmare scenario; it’s a reality for many Nevadans. According to studies, thousands of Nevada drivers are either uninsured or underinsured. That’s where Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage comes in.
At Marathon Law Group, attorneys have seen firsthand how vital this coverage can be. As trusted uninsured motorist lawyers in Las Vegas, they guide clients through the complex process of filing UM and UIM claims, ensuring victims don’t get left with the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.
This article will explain what UM/UIM coverage is, how it works in Nevada, common challenges, and how Marathon Law Group helps clients secure the compensation they deserve.
What Is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?
UM coverage protects you if you’re in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance at all.
Without UM coverage, you may be forced to pay out of pocket for medical bills and damages, even though you weren’t at fault. With UM coverage, your own insurance company steps in to cover these costs, up to the limits of your policy.
What Is Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage?
UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver has some insurance, but not enough to cover all your damages.
For example:
- The other driver carries Nevada’s minimum liability coverage ($25,000 for bodily injury).
- Your medical bills total $75,000.
- Their insurance pays $25,000, but you’re still short $50,000.
If you have UIM coverage, your own insurer may cover the difference, up to your policy limits.
Why UM/UIM Coverage Is So Important in Nevada
Nevada law requires drivers to carry liability insurance, but not everyone follows the rules. In fact, Nevada consistently ranks among the states with high percentages of uninsured drivers.
Even when drivers carry insurance, many only purchase the minimum required coverage, which may not come close to covering serious injuries.
UM and UIM coverage protects you, your passengers, and your financial future in these situations.
How UM/UIM Claims Work in Nevada
Filing a UM or UIM claim isn’t as simple as calling your insurance company. Insurers may resist paying or argue that your damages aren’t as severe as you claim.
The typical UM/UIM process includes:
- Reporting the accident to your insurance company.
- Proving the other driver’s lack of coverage or insufficient coverage.
- Documenting your damages — medical bills, lost wages, ongoing care.
- Negotiating with your insurer for fair compensation.
This is where an uninsured motorist lawyer in Las Vegas can be invaluable. Insurance companies often treat their own customers as adversaries in these claims, and having representation ensures your rights are protected.
Common Challenges in UM/UIM Claims
Victims often face unexpected hurdles when filing these claims:
- Insurance denial – Insurers may argue that UM/UIM coverage doesn’t apply.
- Low settlement offers – Initial offers often don’t cover the full extent of injuries.
- Policy loopholes – Insurers may rely on technicalities in policy language.
- Delays – Claims may drag out, leaving victims without needed funds.
Marathon Law Group attorneys know these tactics well and are prepared to counter them with strong evidence and legal advocacy.
Case Example: A Las Vegas Crash with an Underinsured Driver
One client was seriously injured in a rear-end collision caused by a tourist driving a rental car. The at-fault driver’s insurance policy was too small to cover the medical bills.
Marathon Law Group reviewed the client’s own policy and discovered significant UIM coverage. By pursuing a claim, they secured additional compensation that paid for treatment, therapy, and lost income — all without the client having to go into debt.
This case highlights why UM/UIM claims are so important and why having the right legal team matters.
What Compensation Can You Receive Through UM/UIM?
Like other personal injury claims, UM and UIM coverage may pay for:
- Medical expenses – emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, future care.
- Lost wages – income lost during recovery.
- Reduced earning ability – if injuries prevent you from returning to work.
- Pain and suffering – physical and emotional impact of the accident.
- Property damage – in some cases, damage to your vehicle.
The amount depends on your policy limits, but Marathon Law Group helps clients identify every possible avenue for recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About UM/UIM in Nevada
Q: Am I required to have UM/UIM coverage in Nevada?
A: No, but insurers must offer it. Drivers can decline it in writing — something many regret after an accident.
Q: Does UM/UIM cover hit-and-run accidents?
A: Yes. If the at-fault driver flees and can’t be identified, UM coverage often applies.
Q: Will filing a UM/UIM claim raise my insurance rates?
A: Typically no, because you’re not at fault. However, insurers may look for ways to minimize costs, which is why legal guidance is helpful.
Q: Can multiple policies apply?
A: In some cases, yes. If you or household members have more than one policy, coverage may be “stacked” to increase available funds.
Why Work With Marathon Law Group?
Dealing with your own insurance company after an accident may feel unfair — but it’s a reality of UM/UIM claims. Marathon Law Group stands by clients to ensure insurers honor their policies.
- Strong advocacy – They know the strategies insurers use to undervalue claims.
- Personal attention – Clients receive one-on-one guidance throughout the process.
- Trial readiness – If insurers refuse to be reasonable, Marathon is prepared to litigate.
- Proven results – The firm has helped clients secure meaningful compensation when coverage seemed out of reach.
Avoiding Mistakes in UM/UIM Claims
Victims sometimes unknowingly weaken their claims by:
- Not notifying their insurer quickly enough.
- Failing to provide complete medical documentation.
- Accepting early lowball offers.
- Believing their insurer will “do the right thing” without legal pressure.
By consulting an uninsured motorist lawyer in Las Vegas, you avoid these mistakes and strengthen your case.
The Bigger Picture: Protecting Yourself Before an Accident Happens
One of the most important lessons Marathon Law Group shares with clients is the value of choosing the right insurance coverage before an accident ever happens.
- Review your auto policy today.
- Ask about UM and UIM coverage.
- Consider raising limits above the Nevada minimums.
While no one expects to be in a serious crash, this preparation ensures you’re protected if the worst happens.
Don’t Let an Uninsured Driver Leave You Unprotected
Accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to carry the financial burden alone. With UM and UIM coverage — and the right legal team by your side — you can protect your future and focus on recovery.
The attorneys at Marathon Law Group have helped countless clients in Las Vegas navigate these challenging claims, standing up to insurance companies and fighting for fair compensation.
If you’ve been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, contact Marathon Law Group today for a free consultation. Call or visit MarathonLawGroup.com to learn how an uninsured motorist lawyer in Las Vegas can help you.
Marathon Law Group
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