When You Hit the Road, Are Other Drivers Insured?
When you get behind the wheel, you trust that other drivers have coverage, just like you do. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Some individuals drive without insurance, which can have serious consequences not just for them, but for everyone on the road.
Uninsured drivers may face legal penalties, loss of their driver’s license, and financial hardship. Meanwhile, insured drivers involved in accidents with uninsured motorists may end up bearing the financial burden if the at-fault party cannot cover the costs.
Ultimately, when someone chooses to drive uninsured, they put the entire community at risk.
How Many People in the U.S. Drive Without Insurance?
According to the Insurance Research Institute, uninsured drivers made up about 14% of motorists in the U.S. in 2022. With an estimated 255 million drivers on the road annually, that means approximately 35.7 million people lack coverage equivalent to 1 in 7 drivers.
Some states have significantly higher rates of uninsured drivers than others. In fact, 18 states and Washington, D.C. exceed the national average. For example, the Insurance Research Council estimates that 18.1% of drivers in Georgia are uninsured.
It’s important to note that nearly every state requires drivers to carry a minimum level of auto insurance. Those who operate a vehicle without coverage are breaking the law.
Estimated Percentage of Uninsured Motorists in Select States (2022)
| State | Uninsured Drivers (%) |
|---|---|
| Arizona | 11.9% |
| California | 17.0% |
| Colorado | 17.5% |
| Connecticut | 10.4% |
| Florida | 15.9% |
| Georgia | 18.1% |
| Illinois | 16.3% |
| Nevada | 8.8% |
| Oregon | 12.3% |
| Pennsylvania | 9.6% |
| Texas | 13.8% |
Source: Insurance Research Council
Why Do People Drive Uninsured?
Rising costs from fuel to groceries have led many Americans to drop their car insurance due to affordability concerns. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) found that 82% of uninsured drivers cited inoperable vehicles or an inability to afford coverage as the reason.
Other drivers struggle with high surcharges from prior accidents or serious traffic violations. Unable to find an insurance provider or unwilling to pay costly premiums, they choose to go without coverage. Some simply believe they won’t be involved in an accident until reality proves otherwise.
While auto insurance may seem like an expense, driving without it can cost far more whether through legal fines, accident-related expenses, or medical bills. The risk simply isn’t worth it.
What About Underinsured Drivers?
Underinsured drivers do have insurance, but their policy limits aren’t enough to cover all damages in an accident.
For example, in 2025, Florida drivers are only required to carry $10,000 in property damage liability. That amount may not be enough to cover repair costs if the at-fault driver totals another person’s vehicle. In such cases, the insured driver may have to pay out of pocket for their medical care, car repairs, or legal fees.
How Does Uninsured Driving Affect You?
Auto insurance operates as a shared system, where policyholders contribute payments that cover accidents. When uninsured drivers cause accidents, they haven’t contributed to this pool forcing insurance providers to raise rates to offset costs.
This is one of the reasons why auto insurance rates have risen 12% since last year, according to Quadrant Information Services, as cited on Bankrate.com.
Additionally, uninsured drivers strain public resources, including emergency services and hospitals, which may absorb the costs of accident-related care.
To protect yourself, it’s wise to add uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to your policy. Without it, you may have to cover medical bills, car repairs, and legal fees even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if an uninsured driver causes an accident. Some states require this coverage, while others make it optional.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps cover remaining damages if the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short. For example, if a driver with a $25,000 policy limit causes $40,000 in injuries, their insurer may only cover $25,000 leaving you responsible for the remaining $15,000 unless you have UIM coverage.
Some policies also include uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) to cover car repairs when an at-fault uninsured driver damages your vehicle.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do You Need?
In many states, UM coverage matches your bodily injury liability limits. If your policy covers $50,000 per person for injuries you cause, then your UM coverage would also be $50,000.
Some states let drivers choose lower limits, but it’s wise to ensure you have enough coverage to protect yourself and your passengers.
How Can You Protect Yourself and Your Community?
Here are key steps to stay safe and financially secure:
- Get insured: If you don’t have coverage, protect yourself and others by securing an adequate policy.
- Add UM/UIM coverage: Even if your state doesn’t require it, UM/UIM coverage can save you thousands in the event of an accident.
- Drive safely: Avoid distractions, stay alert, and follow traffic laws to reduce accident risks.
Driving without insurance isn’t just illegal it’s dangerous. It raises costs for those who do carry insurance and creates financial hardship for everyone involved in accidents.
Every driver has a responsibility to protect their community. Do your part, get insured and help make the roads safer for everyone.