Adds property damage to statutory underinsured motor coverage, rather than just uninsured motorist coverage, as it is presently.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

This bill would expand Rhode Island's auto insurance requirements to ensure that drivers have better protection when they're in an accident with someone who doesn't have enough insurance to cover the damages they caused. Specifically, it would add property damage (like damage to your car) to the protections already required under "underinsured motorist coverage" — not just "uninsured motorist coverage" as current law provides.

Right now, Rhode Island law requires insurance companies to offer coverage that protects you if you're hit by a driver who has no insurance at all (uninsured), and this includes property damage protection. However, if you're hit by a driver who has some insurance but not enough to fully cover your losses (underinsured), current law only requires that gap-filling coverage for bodily injury — not for damage to your vehicle or other property. This bill would close that gap.

The people most directly affected would be Rhode Island drivers and vehicle owners. If this bill passes, insurance policies would be required to include property damage protection in underinsured motorist coverage, meaning if another driver's insurance falls short of covering your repair bills, your own policy could help make up the difference. Insurance companies operating in Rhode Island would also be affected, as they would need to adjust their policy offerings to meet the new requirement.

The bill is currently in early stages, having been referred to the House Corporations Committee, with a hearing postponed as of March 2026.