Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage Mandatory in Florida?

Being on the road comes with several unique challenges. One of the risks of being on the road is the risk of accidents. Auto insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind in the event of a collision. Generally, auto insurance is mandatory in Florida. Florida drivers must carry a minimum amount of auto insurance defined by law to lawfully operate a vehicle on the road. For example, drivers in Florida must have a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) coverage. This type of coverage pays for damages to another driver’s car caused by you or another person driving your insured vehicle. Another type of insurance coverage available to Florida drivers is uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Having UM/UIM coverage can be crucial. However, Florida drivers are not required to purchase UM/UIM coverage. So, to answer the question, “Is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage mandatory in Florida?” the answer is no, it is not. But while UM/UIM coverage is not mandatory in Florida, purchasing this type of insurance is highly advisable. Read on to learn the importance of purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

Why Do You Need UM/UIM Coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is not mandatory in Florida. However, this does not mean you don’t need this type of insurance. In fact, you really do need UM/UIM coverage. When an individual purchases auto insurance, the insurance company usually offers a minimum amount of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. In fact, insurance companies are required to offer this type of insurance to policyholders. If you decline UM/UIM coverage, your rejection must be in writing. It is crucial that before you opt out of purchasing UM/UIM coverage, you think carefully about the implications of not having this type of insurance coverage.

So, why do you need UM/UIM coverage? UM/UIM coverage is meant to protect you in the event that you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Given the potential risk of car accidents and the prevalence of uninsured and underinsured drivers in Florida, it is recommended that motorists seriously consider purchasing UM/UIM coverage. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), in 2019, 20.4% of Florida drivers were uninsured. If you are injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your UM/UIM coverage can ensure you recover the full extent of your damages.

UM/UIM coverage can also cover you if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident. This is an accident where the other driver flees without stopping and exchanging information or rendering assistance. In the case of a hit and run, you can file a claim against your insurance company if you have UM/UIM coverage, regardless of whether the other driver is ever found or not or had insurance.

Damages UM/UIM Coverage Can Cover

UM/UIM coverage is designed to compensate car accident victims for various damages, including the following;

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of earning capacity

Legal Help Is Available

In the event of a car accident, contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal guidance.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Myers, Ocala, Orlando, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Tampa, Jacksonville, Naples, and Melbourne areas.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/insurance/