Florida law requires all registered drivers to carry car insurance.
Vehicles cannot be registered unless drivers obtain auto insurance. As Florida is a no-fault state, going through insurance is mandatory if an accident occurs. Drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability with their policies. These types of coverage compensate anyone who suffers injuries or damages in a car accident.
Car Insurance Requirements in Florida
You should expect various car insurance requirements in Florida. They include that Florida is a no-fault state, minimum requirements in Florida, property damage liability coverage limits, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection (PIP).
No-Fault State
As a no-fault state, Florida requires drivers to carry auto insurance and turn to their policies after accidents. Coverage pays for expenses related to injuries and other damages.
Definition of No-Fault State
The definition of no-fault state means that if a car accident occurs, the parties involved don’t have to prove fault. Instead, any damages are compensated through the person’s auto insurance policy. This differs from fault states, where liability must be established when filing a claim.
How it Affects Car Insurance Requirements
According to Florida Statute 627.7407, no-fault law requires drivers to carry the minimum personal injury protection (PIP). This amounts to $10,000 in coverage to protect each driver in the event of an accident to pay for their medical expenses, lost wages and lost earning capacity.
Minimum Requirements in Florida
Florida requires drivers to have minimum coverage with their car insurance. These amounts equate to $10,000 for PIP and property damage liability (PDL).
Bodily Injury Liability Coverage Limits
The minimum bodily injury coverage is $10,000 per person and up to $20,000 per accident. However, in severe crashes, this may not be enough to cover your damages. As such, you might have to increase your insurance coverage or file a lawsuit.
Property Damage Liability Coverage Limits
Property damage liability coverage limits are $10,000 per policy. The liable driver’s insurance pays for damage to someone’s vehicle and other property. If the limit is insufficient to compensate for damages, the person can file a lawsuit.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects drivers in accidents involving drivers who don’t have insurance or don’t have enough coverage. It’s not mandatory but is good to carry.
What Is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
According to Florida Statute 627.727, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can pay for damages caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver or cover the difference for an accident with an underinsured driver. It can compensate beyond your regular PIP and PDL coverage.
Is It Required in Florida?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is not required in Florida. However, it’s smart to have it in case you get into a car accident with someone uninsured or underinsured.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
According to Florida Statute 627.736, PIP covers the policyholder and relatives in their household for injuries. Minimum coverage of $10,000 is required to cover up to 80% of medical expenses and $5,000 in death benefits.
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We specialize in personal injury claims.
What Is PIP in Florida?
PIP stands for “personal injury protection” in Florida. It’s mandatory coverage with car insurance to cover the costs of your medical expenses stemming from an accident. PIP pays even when you’re at fault for a collision.
What Does PIP Cover?
PIP covers all necessary medical treatment and expenses regardless of fault. It also provides death benefits to pay for funeral and burial expenses if someone is killed in a car accident.
PIP Coverage Limits
PIP coverage limits are 80%, up to $10,000 per person for injury expenses such as medical bills, therapy, rehabilitation and diagnostic testing. This also includes up to $5,000 per person for death benefits.
Benefits of Having PIP Coverage in Florida
Florida drivers can benefit from having PIP coverage. The insurance allows them to be reimbursed for medical expenses stemming from car accident-related injuries. It also covers up to 60% of lost wages and provides death benefits and replacement services.
Mandatory PIP Coverage in Florida
In Florida, PIP is mandatory. The law requires drivers to have the minimum coverage in their insurance policies before registering their vehicles.
Amount of Mandatory PIP Coverage
Drivers must carry the minimum amount of mandatory PIP coverage. This is $10,000, which is available to cover medical expenses, lost wages and death from a car accident.
Need free legal help in Florida?
We specialize in personal injury claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Legally Drive in Florida Without Insurance?
You cannot legally drive in Florida without insurance. Unfortunately, many drivers still operate cars without coverage.
Do You Need Car Insurance to Get a License in Florida?
You don’t need car insurance to get a driver’s license in Florida. However, you must obtain insurance before you can register a vehicle.
Is Florida a Mandatory Car Insurance State?
Car insurance is mandatory for all drivers upon registering a vehicle. It’s the law of no-fault states to rely on insurance coverage to pay for damages from an accident.
Can You Register a Car in Florida without Insurance?
You cannot register a car without insurance in Florida. You must show proof of insurance coverage before you’re permitted to register a vehicle.
How Long Can You Go without Insurance in Florida?
Insurance is mandatory for all Florida drivers. If you drive without coverage, your license can be suspended for up to three years.
How Much Is a Ticket for No Car Insurance in Florida?
A ticket for no car insurance in Florida is $500 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses carry $1,000 tickets.
Can I Self-Insure My Car in Florida?
According to Florida Statute 324.171, you can self-insure your car if you meet certain criteria. Your net worth must be at least $40,000 and you must have a valid and current Social Security number and driver’s license. You need a notarized financial statement confirming your net worth.
Is Bodily Injury Required in Florida?
Bodily injury coverage is not required in Florida. This is because PIP is usually enough to cover your medical expenses.
Need free legal help in Florida?
We specialize in personal injury claims.
