It is unfortunate that many people with auto insurance policies either do not have SUM coverage or have minimum SUM coverage.

Why is SUM coverage so important anyway? SUM stands for Supplementary Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist coverage. SUM is coverage provided by your insurance company to protect you (and your passengers) in the event an accident happens and the other driver either did not have insurance or they had minimal insurance (which is $25,000/$50,000 in New York State).

Again, SUM coverage protects you and your family. For example, if you were badly injured and the other vehicle only had $25,000 in coverage, you would be able to use your SUM coverage. This would allow you to be compensated for your lost wages, pain and suffering and your medical costs up to the level of your SUM coverage. If you had $500,000 of SUM, you could be compensated up to $500,000, even though the other driver only had a $25,000 policy.

What can be done in New York State to ensure that the public is well informed and protected in the case of a serious auto accident? Perhaps, insurance companies and their agents and brokers could be required to have their clients sign a confirmation that they have reviewed and understand SUM coverage and have decided not to seek this additional coverage.

Auto accident victims in New York State are often left with many unanswered questions and often do not understand the importance of SUM coverage until it's too late.

The attorneys at Cellino & Barnes encourage you to contact your insurance agent or broker today to discuss the importance of SUM coverage and whether you have this insurance on your policy. If you have been injured or have questions about an accident you were in, the attorneys at Cellino & Barnes are available 24/7 to help you. Our consultation is free.