Michigan UM and UIM Claims: Policy Conditions and Exclusions

Buying uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is only the starting point. A claim also depends on who is insured, the covered vehicles, exclusions, notice, and settlement conditions in the policy that applied on the accident date.

Review the endorsement, not just the limit

UM generally addresses an uninsured at-fault driver, while UIM generally concerns insufficient liability coverage. Both are optional coverages with policy-specific terms. A declarations page may show a limit without answering whether a particular person or accident is covered.

Check definitions for named insureds, resident relatives, and occupants. Identify any relevant vehicle, household, or business-use provisions. A family relationship does not automatically establish insured status under every policy.

Questions to resolve before settling

• Which policy and endorsement were in effect when the collision occurred?
• What notice and proof does the policy require, including for an unidentified driver?
• Does a proposed settlement with the other driver require consent or another step under your UIM policy?
• How do offsets, other-insurance provisions, or restrictions affect the available amount?
• Are there policy-specific dispute procedures or deadlines that need prompt review?

Keep the coverage and injury proof together

Save policies, correspondence, crash evidence, medical records, and wage documents. A coverage denial and a disagreement over injury severity are different disputes. Ask for the insurer’s written explanation so the response addresses the actual reason.

Do not assume multiple limits can be added together or that a limit is the amount payable. The Michigan auto insurance FAQs provide general background; the actual endorsement remains essential.

Read a firm-reported UIM example

Our Washtenaw County UIM case report describes a dispute over serious injury and a reported jury valuation. It illustrates a case, not a guaranteed result or a rule overriding another policy. For representation, see UM and UIM accident claims.

Talk with Logeman & Iafrate

Request a free consultation or call (734) 994-0200 to discuss your situation with our Ann Arbor office. Bring the relevant records and any insurer correspondence. Advice about your claim depends on the facts, coverage, and applicable deadlines.

General information only; this article is not legal advice for an individual case.

Does my relative’s policy necessarily cover me?

No. The insured-person definition and other conditions must be reviewed.

Can I sign the driver’s release before considering UIM?

Have the release and policy conditions reviewed first. Settlement steps can affect other rights.