Should I Purchase an Uninsured Motorist Policy in Florida?
Florida ranks as one of the highest states in the nation for motor vehicle deaths. Florida is reputed to have more uninsured drivers than any other state in the country, according to the Insurance Research Council. More than a quarter of all drivers in Florida are uninsured.
Those who are injured in auto accidents can face substantial costs related to their injuries. Uninsured and Underinsured motor vehicle policies help add another layer of protection in addition to your $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) policy.
The majority of motor vehicle accidents will include injury damages far in excess of $10,000. In cases where the driver who hit you was uninsured, their policy would not help augment the costs related to your expenses. In these cases, your Uninsured Motorist policy can help you recoup financial costs related to medical expenses, lost wages, and more. In this article, the Tampa, FL car accident attorneys at The Matassini Law Firm will discuss Uninsured Motorist policies and why they are important.
What is Uninsured Motorist coverage in Florida?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is an insurance policy that can help pay for damages when you’re involved in a car accident with a driver who does not carry bodily injury liability coverage. While Florida residents are not required by law to purchase an Uninsured Motorist policy, insurance companies are required to offer such policies to Florida residents. If you choose not to purchase UM coverage, you must opt-out in writing. However, opting out could result in financial ruin if you get into an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
UM policies include:
- Disability costs
- Future loss of earning potential
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering damages
- Present and future medical expenses
- Property damages
- Wrongful death
Florida requires all drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance as well as a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) coverage. PIP insurance covers medical expenses regardless of who is at fault for the accident. If your medical bills and other damages exceed the PIP limits, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Uninsured Motorist coverage in Florida covers bodily injury damages
There are two types of uninsured motorist coverage that insurance companies offer in Florida. These include:
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury – This policy covers a driver who was in an accident with a negligent uninsured driver. It covers damages related to physical injuries such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering damages, and loss of earning potential.
- Underinsured motorist bodily injury – This policy is similar to UM coverage but helps drivers whose medical expenses and other damages exceed the combined total of their PIP coverage and the other driver’s liability insurance.
Talk to a Tampa, FL Uninsured Motorist Lawyer Today
The Tampa, FL auto accident attorneys at The Matassini Law Firm represent the interests of Florida drivers who have been in serious car accidents and sustained serious injuries. Call our office today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.
