Welcome to Florida, the Sunshine State! If you are moving to Florida soon, you undoubtedly have a lot on your plate – but one thing you shouldn’t forget to update is car insurance. This guide is tailored to help newcomers like you effortlessly transition your car insurance to the new laws and requirements while getting the best bang for your buck. Here is everything you need to know about obtaining the florida car iunsurance you need.
Understanding Florida Car Insurance Requirements
Like many other states, Florida is a “no-fault” state. In a no-fault state, the insurance company that each driver has coverage with pays for their separate medical expenses and financial burdens, regardless of who was at fault/who caused the accident.
As a driver in Florida, you are required to have two specific types of coverage:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): At least $10,000 in PIP coverage is mandated under Florida law. Along with your bills, it also covers other household members, your children, and certain passengers who lack PIP Insurance, provided they do not own a vehicle. Furthermore, PIP extends to you when you’re a passenger in someone else’s car or if you’re struck by a car while walking or cycling.
- Property Damage Liability (PDL): This coverage is also mandatory with a minimum requirement of $10,000. PDL pays for any damage you or members of your family cause to another person’s property with your vehicle.
While not mandated by state law, two other types of coverage are highly advisable:
- Bodily Injury Liability (Optional but recommended): Bodily Injury Liability deals specifically with and adds additional coverage to serious bodily injuries or death when you cause a car accident, also providing a legal defense if you get sued. Given the high cost of medical care, this coverage can save you from financial ruin in case of a severe accident.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage is a wise choice, considering that Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the U.S. It protects you if you’re in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or lacks insurance minimums to help cover all of your expenses when you reach out.
To make this transition as smooth as possible, follow these general steps:
- Contact Your Current Insurance Provider: Inform them of your move to Florida. Discuss the possibility of updating your policy to meet Florida’s requirements or, if necessary, switching to a new provider that operates in Florida.
- Research Florida-Specific Insurance Options: Seeking advice from local insurance agents can be invaluable, as they can provide insights into the types of coverage beneficial in Florida.
- Register Your Vehicle in Florida: Once you have your Florida insurance policy, you can then finally register your vehicle and feel safe and secure on Florida roads.
How do I ensure my insurance meets Florida’s requirements?
Our agency is well-versed in Florida’s insurance laws and regulations. Our team members can assist in evaluating your current coverage and advise on any necessary updates to ensure compliance with Florida’s requirements. We work daily to help Florida residents understand the specifics of mandatory coverages like Personal Injury Protection and Property Damage Liability and optional but recommended coverages. Despite moving to a new state being a complicated process, updating your car insurance doesnt have to be similarly challenging.
Contact Anderson & Associates Insurance Group today, and our licensed car insurance team will help you find the best car insurance rates and coverages!
