If you insure more than one vehicle, stacking can multiply your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection.
Unstacked coverage
Each vehicle has its own UM/UIM limit, and only that limit applies to a claim involving that car. Simpler and cheaper.
Stacked coverage
You combine the UM/UIM limits across all your insured vehicles. With two cars at $50,000 each, stacking gives you up to $100,000 of protection on a single claim.
Why it matters
UM/UIM pays your injuries when an at-fault driver has no insurance or too little. In states with many uninsured drivers, higher effective limits are valuable.
Things to know
- Stacking raises your premium somewhat.
- Not every state allows it, and some insurers restrict it.
- It typically requires two or more vehicles on the policy.
Bottom line
If you own multiple cars and live in a high-uninsured-driver state, ask whether stacking is available and price the small premium increase against the larger protection.