Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Georgia: FAQs for Drivers

If you drive in Georgia, you’ve probably heard the term Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. But what is it, and do you really need it? At Hembree Insurance Agency, we get this question all the time. Below, we’ve answered the most common FAQs about UM coverage so you can make an informed decision about protecting yourself and your family.

What is Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage?

Uninsured Motorist coverage helps protect you if you’re in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. In Georgia, nearly 1 in 8 drivers on the road are uninsured, which means this coverage is more important than many people realize.

Is UM Coverage Required in Georgia?

No, Georgia law does not require you to carry uninsured motorist coverage. However, your insurance company must offer it, and you have to reject it in writing if you don’t want it. Most agents — including us — strongly recommend keeping it.

What Does UM Coverage Pay For?

UM coverage can help pay for:

• Medical bills for you and your passengers

• Lost wages if you can’t work after the accident

• Pain and suffering damages

• Vehicle repairs (depending on the type of policy you choose)

What’s the Difference Between “Added On” and “Reduced By” UM Coverage?

Georgia gives you two options for how your UM works with the at-fault driver’s liability coverage:

• Added On (Stacked) UM Coverage:
  Your UM coverage adds on top of the other driver’s liability limits. Example: If the at-fault driver has $25,000 in liability coverage and you carry $50,000 UM, you’d have a total of $75,000 available.

• Reduced By UM Coverage:
  Your UM coverage is reduced by the at-fault driver’s liability limits. Example: If the at-fault driver has $25,000 and you have $50,000 UM, you still only have $50,000 available, not $75,000.

Most Georgians choose Added On UM for stronger protection.

How Much UM Coverage Should I Carry?

It depends on your budget and needs, but we typically recommend matching your liability limits. For example, if you carry $100,000/$300,000 in liability coverage, carry the same in UM to make sure you and your family are equally protected.

Will UM Coverage Pay if I’m Hit as a Pedestrian or Passenger?

Yes! UM coverage isn’t limited to just when you’re driving your own car. It can apply if you’re:

• Walking or biking and hit by an uninsured driver

• Riding in someone else’s vehicle as a passenger

• Driving a car you don’t own but are legally allowed to operate

How Much Does UM Coverage Cost in Georgia?

The good news is that uninsured motorist coverage is usually very affordable — often just a few extra dollars a month compared to the financial risk of being hit by an uninsured driver.

Final Thoughts

Uninsured motorist coverage in Georgia is one of the smartest add-ons you can make to your auto policy. It protects you, your family, and your finances from the risk of drivers who don’t carry enough coverage.

👉 At Hembree Insurance Agency, we work with top carriers to help drivers in Kennesaw, Marietta, and all of Cobb County find the right protection at the best price.