Why You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
& How IT WORKS
Introduction
Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to car insurance, meaning that after an accident, your own insurance typically covers your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault. However, even in a no-fault system, there are still situations where you could face financial strain due to a negligent driver who either doesn’t have enough insurance or no insurance at all. This is where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage comes into play.
In this blog, we’ll explain why you need uninsured motorist coverage in Florida and how it can protect you and your family in the event of an accident.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of car insurance that protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or lacks sufficient coverage to pay for your damages. UM coverage typically applies to both injuries and property damage and can be used when the at-fault driver either:
- Has no car insurance.
- Has insurance, but not enough to cover your medical bills and other damages.
- Is a hit-and-run driver and cannot be identified.
Why Florida Drivers Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage
High Number of Uninsured Drivers in Florida
Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the United States. According to the Insurance Research Council, nearly one in four drivers in Florida is uninsured. This means that in the event of an accident, you are more likely to encounter an uninsured or underinsured driver than in many other states. Without UM coverage, you could be left paying for your medical expenses and property damage out of pocket.
Protects You in a Hit-and-Run Accident
In Florida, hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common. If the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be identified, your uninsured motorist coverage can help cover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Without this protection, you might be left without compensation.
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Laws Leave Gaps in Coverage
While Florida requires all drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which covers medical expenses regardless of fault, PIP has limitations. It typically covers only a percentage of your medical bills and lost wages, and it may not be enough if your injuries are severe or long-term. UM coverage fills in the gaps by covering expenses not fully addressed by PIP or the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Extensive Medical and Rehabilitation Costs Can Be Expensive
Even minor accidents can lead to significant medical bills. Serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries, can result in thousands—if not millions—of dollars in medical expenses over time. If you are hit by an uninsured driver, UM coverage can help ensure you don’t face these expenses alone.
Florida’s Limited Liability Insurance Coverage
Florida law only requires drivers to carry $10,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person and $20,000 per accident. This amount may not be enough to cover your injuries, especially if you have significant medical costs. With UM coverage, you have an additional layer of protection to help cover the difference, ensuring that you are compensated fairly for your injuries.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works in Florida
Uninsured motorist coverage in Florida can be used to cover:
- Medical Expenses: Hospital visits, doctor appointments, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional and physical pain caused by your injuries.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle if the at-fault driver is uninsured.
In Florida, you can choose the amount of uninsured motorist coverage you want, which is typically based on the limits of your bodily injury liability coverage. While you may choose limits that match or exceed your liability coverage, it’s recommended to carry as much UM coverage as you can afford to ensure full protection.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Florida?
No, uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law in Florida. However, insurance experts strongly recommend it to protect yourself in case you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. If you choose not to purchase uninsured motorist coverage, you must sign a waiver stating that you have been made aware of the risks of not having this coverage.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help You After an Uninsured Motorist Accident?
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, having a personal injury lawyer on your side can help you:
- Navigate your insurance claim: A lawyer can help you understand your policy and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Negotiate with your insurer: If your insurance company is reluctant to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer can advocate for your best interests and negotiate for a better outcome.
- Pursue additional compensation: If your damages exceed the limits of your insurance, a lawyer can help you explore other avenues for compensation, such as pursuing the at-fault driver personally if they can be located or held liable.
Conclusion
If you’ve been in an accident involving an uninsured driver in Florida, don’t wait—contact the Duncan Injury Group today. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys can help you navigate your uninsured motorist claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Fill out a FREE case evaluation.