Quick Reference: UM/UIM Claims in Snohomish County
- Many crashes in Snohomish County involve uninsured or underinsured drivers.
- UM/UIM coverage can help pay for injuries when the other driver lacks sufficient insurance.
- This applies to hit-and-runs, or if you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist.
- Claims go through your own insurance and can be delayed or denied.
- Getting legal help early improves your chance of full compensation.
If you were injured in a car accident in Snohomish County and discovered the at-fault driver had little or no insurance, you’re not alone—and you may still have options. Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage can be a vital source of compensation after a crash, especially in Washington state, where serious collisions are on the rise.
Whether your injuries came from a hit-and-run or a driver with insufficient coverage, understanding how UM/UIM claims work could help you protect your rights—and your recovery.
Car Accidents Are Increasing Across Snohomish County
According to data from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, fatal crashes in Snohomish County have increased in recent years, mirroring a concerning statewide trend. In 2023, Washington recorded one of its highest traffic fatality counts in decades, with Snohomish County consistently ranking among the top five counties for serious crashes.
Local initiatives like Target Zero—a campaign aiming to eliminate traffic deaths by 2030—underscore just how serious the problem has become. But while enforcement and education are key, they don’t stop every reckless, distracted, or uninsured driver from causing harm.
What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage helps pay for your injuries if you’re hit by a driver who has no liability insurance at all.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the other driver has insurance, but it’s not enough to cover the full cost of your medical care, lost wages, or long-term disability.
Washington law requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM coverage, though drivers can decline it in writing. If you’re unsure whether you have this coverage, it’s worth reviewing your auto policy—or asking an attorney to help you read through it.
When Can UM/UIM Coverage Apply?
UM or UIM coverage may be used when:
- The at-fault driver had no insurance.
- You were injured in a hit-and-run and the other driver can’t be found.
- The other driver had insurance, but not enough to cover your damages.
- You were a passenger in a vehicle covered by a UM/UIM policy.
- You were hit as a pedestrian or cyclist and meet policy definitions.
Each policy is different, and even if UM/UIM coverage seems available, the claim process can be complicated—especially when dealing with your own insurance company.
Why Early Legal Help Matters
Unlike a typical car accident claim where you deal with another driver’s insurer, a UM/UIM claim involves your own insurance company. That can lead to delays, denied claims, or low settlement offers—even though you’ve paid premiums for this protection.
Having legal support early in the process can help ensure:
- You meet the deadlines required to notify your insurer.
- You gather and present the right medical and accident evidence.
- You understand what your policy covers and what it doesn’t.
- You avoid giving statements that may be used to reduce your claim.
Legal professionals can help you evaluate your options and negotiate on your behalf—without charging anything upfront in most cases.
Local Cases Highlight the Risk
From Everett to Lynnwood, stories of hit-and-runs, DUI crashes, and underinsured drivers are sadly becoming more common. In April 2021, the Lynnwood Times reported on efforts by local agencies to curb fatal crashes and raise awareness about insurance issues. Yet too many victims still find themselves stuck with bills that far exceed the other driver’s coverage limits—or worse, no coverage at all.
Don’t Wait to Get the Information You Need
If you were injured in a car accident anywhere in Snohomish County and suspect the other driver may be uninsured or underinsured, take the time to learn your options. Many people don’t realize UM/UIM coverage could apply until it’s too late to file.
At Bridge Law, we help individuals and families explore all avenues of recovery—including through their own policies. We’re here to answer your questions, review your insurance, and help you understand what to expect—at no cost unless we win your case.
