Why Higher Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Matters in Connecticut

Connecticut has some of the highest insurance and repair costs in the country. At the same time, a surprising number of drivers on the road carry only the state-minimum liability limits—or no insurance at all. That creates a serious gap for responsible drivers.

Here’s why higher Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is so valuable in Connecticut:

1. CT’s Minimum Limits Are Very Low

Connecticut drivers are only required to carry $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
One trip to the hospital can exceed that amount—easily. If the driver who injures you only carries the minimum (or nothing at all), your own UM/UIM coverage becomes your protection.

2. Medical Costs and Lost Wages Add Up Quickly

Even a moderate accident can result in:

• ER visits

• Imaging and specialist care

• Physical therapy

• Time away from work

If the other driver can’t cover those expenses, your UM/UIM coverage steps in so you’re not left carrying the financial burden.

3. It Protects Your Passengers and Family Members

Connecticut UM/UIM follows you—not just your car. It covers:

• You as a driver

• Your passengers

• You as a pedestrian or cyclist

• Family members in your household

Raising the limits protects everyone you care about.

4. It’s One of the Most Cost-Effective Coverages You Can Buy

Increasing UM/UIM from basic to high limits (even $250,000/$500,000 or higher) is usually one of the least expensive upgrades on a policy—especially compared to the protection it provides.

5. Hit-and-Run Accidents Are Covered

If you’re struck by a driver who flees the scene, UM coverage acts as if the other driver had no insurance at all.
This is more common than most people realize.

6. It Matches Your Liability Protection

Many carriers recommend keeping UM/UIM equal to your liability limits. It’s a simple rule of thumb:
If you protect others with high liability limits, protect yourself the same way.

Why Increasing UM/UIM to “2X” Your Liability Limit May Be Even Smarter

In Connecticut, many companies allow you to buy 2X Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage, also known as “double UM/UIM.” That means if you carry $250,000/$500,000 liability, you can protect yourself with up to $500,000/$1,000,000 in UM/UIM.

Here’s why that extra step can be worth it:

1. You Can Only Use Your Liability Limits to Protect Others—Not Yourself

Liability coverage protects the other driver.
UM/UIM is what protects you if the person who hits you can’t pay.
Doubling it is simply doubling your ability to take care of yourself and your family.

2. Serious Injuries Often Exceed Even High Limits

Medical costs, long-term treatment, lost income, and pain-and-suffering claims can go well beyond standard limits.
Having 2X gives you a meaningful cushion in high-severity accidents.

3. Most Underinsured Drivers Are Significantly Underinsured

A very common scenario in CT:
The at-fault driver only has the state minimum.
Your standard UM/UIM may still fall short in covering a large loss.
Doubling your limits helps close that gap.

4. It Works Seamlessly With an Umbrella Policy

If you carry a personal umbrella, many carriers will also expand UM/UIM protection through the umbrella—but only if you already have high UM/UIM on your auto policy.
Doubling your UM/UIM helps ensure your umbrella can actually cover you.

5. It’s Still Inexpensive Compared to the Protection You Get

Even doubling your limits is usually surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to the financial impact of a severe injury.