The Insurance Research Council estimates more than one quarter (25%) of Alabama's drivers operate their vehicles without liability insurance. These figures are from 2007, and the uninsured rate is likely higher now because states with the highest unemployment rates also have the highest rates of uninsured motorist. The following are the five states with the highest percentage of uninsured motorist (as of 2007, the last estimate available):
- New Mexico: 29 percent
- Mississippi: 28 percent (thank God for Mississippi!)
- Alabama: 26 percent
- Oklahoma: 24 percent
- Florida: 23 percent
- Where the heck is Louisiana and West Virginia?
You say, "So what, how does it effect me?" Well, this results in drivers with insurance paying more for their insurance, plus a premium covering them for uninsured motorist. Not to mention, if you are hit by an uninsured motorist, your damage is paid only if you are carrying collision coverage on your vehicle, and yes, you incur your deductible. If you are not carrying collision, then you have the "SOL" coverage. If you are familiar with the "SOL" acronym, it basically means you are "outa luck". The "S" is evidently used for emphasis.
So, when you are stopped at the next red light, count how many cars are stopped around you at the intersection. If you see 10 cars, go ahead and figure at least 2 or 3 are uninsured.
Liability insurance is pretty cheap - about $35 to $65 per month and up depending on age, driving history, make and model of vehicle, etc. If you know of anyone out there looking for coverage, please refer them to me. I can write auto insurance anywhere in the state of Alabama.
