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Florida Uninsured/Underinsured 

It is a law for all drivers in Florida to maintain insurance. That means that if they cause an accident or injury to another person, that person’s medical bills and other losses are covered under the policy. However, unlike many other states, Florida requires drivers to maintain personal protection insurance (PIP) of at least $10,000 as well as $10,000 in property damage liability insurance. While these are the rules, you need to know how to protect yourself. A person should get behind the wheel with ample insurance coverage to protect themselves.

However, that does not always occur, and when it does not, Florida underinsured/uninsured insurance becomes critical. Talk to a Sarasota car accident attorney from Shapiro | Delgado today about your case.

Are You Required to Carry Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage in Florida?

Under the state’s laws, you are required to carry $10,000 in PIP insurance as well as $10,000 in property damage liability insurance. You are not legally required to carry coverage for uninsured and underinsured motorists in the state of Florida. However, in nearly all situations, it can be one of the most important investments you have. This may help to cover:

  • Medical costs for your own injuries
  • Medical costs for the passengers in the car with you
  • Medical costs for any resident family member who lives in your home who is injured by an uninsured or minimally insured driver

Understanding Florida PIP Coverage

What makes Florida a bit different is the requirement for PIP coverage. Because Florida is a no-fault state, that means that if you are hurt in a car accident or a family member in your home is hurt in a car accident, your insurance company helps cover the costs up to a stated maximum, no matter who actually causes the accident.

PIP will pay $10,000 in losses based on your needs if you maintain the minimum required overage. This could include the medical care you have as well as the lost wages you suffer.

What About Uninsured/Underinsured?

There are many times when a person’s accident injuries will cost far more than $10,000. If that is the limit on your PIP plan, it can become very costly to you out of pocket. In these situations, uninsured or underinsured insurance can help you.

Also, note that underinsured and uninsured insurance can help you in situations where the other driver is unknown. For example, suppose you suffer an injury in which the driver does not stop, and the police cannot determine who that is. In that case, you can use your PIP coverage for the first $10,000 and then your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to cover additional damages over and above that amount since you do not have another person to pursue compensation from in this incident.

In situations where you’re facing financial loss due to an injury and the other party does not have enough insurance to cover your losses or you do not know who the other party is, it can be critical for you to take action. Turn to a car accident attorney in Florida who can help you navigate the best steps.