Over the past 34 years, I have seen countless people injured in motor vehicle accidents who had insufficient insurance coverage. As a result, they recovered far less money than they otherwise would have. I have also seen people cause accidents with inadequate insurance leaving themselves personally liable. It is important for everybody to make sure they have sufficient insurance.

In Maryland, the minimal limits of insurance are rather low. Every driver in Maryland must carry bodily injury and uninsured motorist limits of at least $30,000 per person/$60,000 per occurrence/$15,000 for property damage. Bodily injury coverage applies if you strike someone else's vehicle. Uninsured motorist coverage applies if an uninsured or underinsured driver hits your vehicle. This is not much money.

Many people carry the minimal limits. This means if you carry minimal limits and are struck by an uninsured drunk driver, your maximum insurance coverage is $30,000 for a bodily injury claim. This is not much if you are going to need lengthy treatment for a serious injury. In addition, if you were driving an expensive car, your property damage coverage is limited to only $15,000 if you did not carry collision coverage which is a problem if the cost of repair exceeds that amount.

Speaking of collision coverage, too many people try to save a few dollars by not carrying collision or comprehensive coverage. If an accident happens that was your fault and you do not have collision coverage, then you are on your own to get your car fixed as well as to pay for storage costs and rental care fees.

It is important to reevaluate your insurance situation. It is not expensive to increase your bodily injury and uninsured motorist limits. Do not wait until it is too late.