Your own uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist coverage will be important if the defendant had no liability coverage or insufficient coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries. UM/UIM insurance pays you the same damages that you could have recovered from the defendant's insurer if the defendant had carried enough insurance. Your UM/UIM limits are shown on the declarations sheet of your auto policy. The claim depends on proving fault on the part underinsured driver. Your claim includes damages for pain and suffering and other noneconomic losses. Most people use a lawyer to handle the UM/UIM claim if significant injuries are involved. Do not sign a release for the defendant driver without the written consent of your UM/UIM carrier. If you do so your UM/UIM claim may be barred.