Short Answer

In North Carolina, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is built into most auto liability policies and must be active on the date of a crash to apply. To confirm yours is active, check your current Declarations Page and ID card, then call your insurer or agent and ask for a written “coverage verification” showing dates and UM/UIM limits. If there was any recent cancellation, nonrenewal, or lapse, ask for the policy’s status and notice history in writing.

Understanding the Problem

You’re a North Carolina policyholder who wants to know: “Can I verify that my uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is active with my insurer right now?” This comes up when you need to make a claim or after a renewal or billing change. You’re seeking a clear, current confirmation of coverage and limits from your insurance company.

Apply the Law

North Carolina law requires motor vehicles to carry liability insurance, and standard NC auto policies include UM coverage. UM must be in force on the date of an accident to respond. Under state law, UM is mandatory; underinsured motorist (UIM) generally applies only when you purchase liability limits higher than the minimums. Your insurer is the first stop to verify whether your policy is active and what UM/UIM limits apply for the current policy period.

Key Requirements

• Active NC auto policy: You must have an in-force NC motor vehicle liability policy on the date of the incident for UM to apply.
• UM is mandatory in NC: Policies include UM coverage at least at the minimum limits; UIM typically applies only if you bought higher liability limits.
• Proof of coverage: The current Declarations Page and ID card show policy period and limits; you can request a written coverage verification letter from your insurer.
• Continuous coverage rule: NC requires continuous financial responsibility on registered vehicles; insurers report certain cancellations/lapses to the state.
• Claim notice: Policies require prompt notice after a crash; delays can affect coverage.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 20-279.21 (Motor vehicle liability policy; UM/UIM) - Sets required auto liability coverages and provides for UM (and, when applicable, UIM) coverage.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 20-309 (Financial responsibility required) - Requires continuous liability insurance for vehicles registered in NC.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: With no specific facts provided, consider two simple scenarios. If your policy renewed last month and your ID card and Declarations Page show current dates, your UM is likely active; ask your insurer for a written coverage verification to confirm limits. If you missed a premium and suspect a cancellation, request your policy status and any cancellation/nonrenewal notices in writing and ask whether a lapse was reported to the state; if there was a lapse, UM would not apply during that gap.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: You (the insured). Where: Your insurer or agent’s office in North Carolina (phone, portal, or email). What: Ask for your current Declarations Page and a written “coverage verification” or “letter of experience” showing policy period and UM/UIM limits; if there’s a claim, request a certified copy of the policy and endorsements. When: Do this immediately; insurers typically can confirm same day and provide documents within a few business days.
2. If you suspect a lapse, ask the insurer for the notice history (cancellation/nonrenewal/billing) and whether a lapse was reported to the state. You can also confirm which insurer is on file for your vehicle through NCDMV records.
3. Keep the written verification with your claim file. If an adjuster is assigned, provide your confirmation documents and policy number; the adjuster can re-verify UM/UIM limits directly.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• Confusing UM and UIM: UM is included; UIM generally applies only if you purchased higher liability limits. Verify which you carry.
• Assuming online cards equal coverage: An ID card shows proof but may not reflect a recent cancellation; always get written verification of active status and limits.
• Nonpayment or nonrenewal: A cancellation or lapse means no UM for that period. Ask for the insurer’s written notice history and effective dates.
• Wrong company contact: Large carriers have multiple affiliates; confirm your exact company name and policy number from your Declarations Page.
• Out-of-state policy: If your policy was issued in another state, rules and coverages can differ; ask for a certified copy of the policy to confirm UM.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you're dealing with questions about your UM coverage or a recent crash, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.