Uninsured Driving: What You Should Know

When you hit the road, you do so in good faith that the drivers around you are protected by insurance, just like you are. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case, as some drivers choose to drive without insurance. This kind of driving not only impacts the uninsured driver, but others on the road as well. Uninsured drivers can face legal penalties, a loss of driver’s license, and financial consequences. Insured drivers who are struck by an at-fault uninsured driver may have to carry the financial burden of the accident if the uninsured party can’t cover the costs. 

Essentially, when one person decides to get behind the wheel uninsured, they are putting their entire community at risk. 

How many people in the U.S. drive without insurance?

The Insurance Research Institute reports that, in 2022, uninsured drivers accounted for about 14% of drivers in the U.S. With an estimated 255 million people driving each year, that equates to approximately 35.7 million people. In other words, 1 in 7 drivers on the road are driving uninsured. 

Some states have higher rates of uninsured drivers than others. A total of 18 states and Washington, D.C. have uninsured motorist rates that are higher than 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 almost every single state in the US requires drivers to have a minimum amount of auto insurance coverage. That means when an individual operates a vehicle without having auto insurance, they are breaking the law. 

Estimated Percentage of Uninsured Motorists in Select State, 2022:

• 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?

As Americans face rising costs everywhere from the gas pump to the grocery store, many have chosen to drop their car insurance because they feel they can’t afford it. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) determined that of those without coverage, 82% dropped it because their vehicle is inoperable or they can’t afford coverage. 

Other drivers face surcharges due to prior accidents or serious traffic violations. They are reluctant to pay the high premiums that come from a poor driving history, or they can’t find an insurance company willing to insure them. Lastly, some drivers may feel they don’t need insurance because they have a mentality that an accident won’t happen to them.  

The reality is, while auto insurance is an expense, driving without it can cost you far more—whether you get caught, are involved in an accident, or face medical and legal bills. The risk simply isn't worth it.

What about underinsured drivers?

Underinsured drivers are individuals who have auto insurance, but their policy limits (meaning the most money their insurance will pay) do not cover all of the injuries and property damage they may cause in an accident. This might occur when drivers carry the minimum coverage required by law in their state. For example, drivers in Florida in 2025 are required by law to carry just $10,000 of property damage liability. That may not be enough to pay for the damages if they are at-fault and totaled another driver’s new car. This can leave you, as the insured driver, on the hook for a portion of your recovery, whether it's medical care or car replacement or repair.

How does uninsured driving affect you?

Auto insurance is like a shared pool where everyone’s payments go to cover accidents. When uninsured drivers cause accidents, they haven’t contributed to this pool, so insurance companies raise rates for everyone else to make up for the loss. That’s one reason why auto insurance costs have gone up 12% since last year, according to Quadrant Information Services, as cited on Bankrate.com.

Additionally, uninsured driving may place a burden on public resources, as emergency services and hospitals may have to absorb some of the costs associated with uninsured driving accidents. 

It’s a good idea to include uninsured motorist insurance (UM) with your policy. Without UM coverage, you could be responsible for paying your own medical bills, car repairs, legal fees—even if the accident wasn’t your fault.

What is uninsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is a type of insurance that helps protect you if an uninsured driver causes an accident. Many states require this coverage, while others make it optional.

Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, can help make up the difference if the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover all the damages. For example, if a driver with minimum coverage of $25,000 hits you and causes $40,000 in injuries, their insurance might only pay $25,000. Your UIM coverage could cover the remaining $15,000. Some policies also include uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) to help repair your car if it’s damaged by an at-fault uninsured driver.

How much uninsured motorist coverage do you need?

In many states, UM coverage matches your bodily injury liability limits. For example, if your policy covers $50,000 per person for injuries you cause, your UM coverage would also be $50,000. While some states let you choose lower limits, it’s a good idea to have enough coverage to help protect yourself and your passengers.

How do you protect yourself and your community against potential car accidents?

Here are some tips to help stay safe and financially secure:

1. Get insured: If you’re uninsured, help protect yourself and your fellow drivers by getting adequate coverage.
2. Get uninsured motorist coverage: If you are insured, consider adding UM/UIM coverage to your policy even if your state doesn’t require it. It can save you a lot of money if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.
3. Drive safely: Avoiding accidents is the best way to protect yourself. Stay alert, avoid distractions, and follow traffic rules.

Remember, driving without insurance isn’t just against the law—it’s dangerous. It can increase costs for those who are insured and can leave both insured and uninsured drivers facing serious financial hardship after an accident. The risk simply isn’t worth it. Every driver has a responsibility to protect themselves and their community. Do your part and be part of the solution.

If you want more information on uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, talk to a Kemper Auto insurance agent. Click below to find an agent near you.

This material is for general informational purposes only. Products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or all underwriting companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions and conditions of the applicable policy. In all instances, current policy contract language prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting our underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.