If you have been in a car accident in Florida, it's important to know how uninsured motorist coverage works. Getting insurance companies to pay proper value from the uninsured motorist insurance in Florida can be a frustrating and challenging process. This is especially true if you're also having to deal with serious injuries.
In this post, we will break down the details of uninsured motorist coverage. We'll talk about what it is and why it's essential for Florida drivers, as well as how it works. Also, we'll talk about the benefits of uninsured coverage and some of the steps you can take if you've been injured by an uninsured driver in Florida.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call us at 321-LAWSUIT. We offer free legal consultations and we don't get paid unless we get money for you. During our first phone call together, we can talk about what happened and help you better understand your legal rights moving forward.
The Basics of Uninsured Motorist Insurance
Uninsured motorist insurance, or UM insurance, protects you if you're in an accident with a driver who doesn't have enough liability insurance. This policy comes into play when the at-fault party can't cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages related to the accident.
In Florida, where thousands of drivers are uninsured or under-insured, having this coverage can be crucial for financial protection. According to the Insurance Information Institute, around 20.6% of drivers in Florida don't have insurance. Florida ranks number 7 in states with the highest number of uninsured drivers.
Uninsured motorist coverage pays for bodily injury damages caused by a negligent driver. For example, it pays for things like:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Why Uninsured Motorist Insurance is a Must-Have in Florida
In Florida, uninsured motorist insurance isn't just a smart move, it's essential. Shockingly, almost one in four drivers in Florida are uninsured, according to the Insurance Research Council. This alarming statistic highlights why every driver should consider adding uninsured motorist coverage to their auto insurance policy.
Uninsured motorist coverage can be a saving grace in the event of an incident with another motorist who lacks liability insurance or has insufficient amounts to pay for medical expenses and lost wages. Without uninsured motorist coverage, you could find yourself paying out-of-pocket for expenses resulting from someone else's negligence.
The importance of this type of coverage becomes even more apparent when considering that Florida follows a no-fault system for car accidents. Florida doesn't require drivers to carry bodily injury coverage, and so they may not have any coverage available to pay for damages they negligently caused.
How to Get Compensation Out of Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage After an Accident in Florida
Florida drivers are required to carry auto insurance, but not everyone follows the law. If an uninsured or underinsured driver causes an accident, you may face significant financial losses. That's where uninsured motorist (UM) insurance comes in.
The Claims Process
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company after an accident. Your insurer will then step in and compensate you for losses that would have been covered by the at-fault driver's insurance if they had it.
Filing a Claim
To file a claim under your uninsured motorist policy, you'll need to prove that:
- The other driver was at fault for the accident;
- You suffered injuries as a result of the accident;
- The other driver didn't have enough insurance to cover your losses.
A car accident lawyer at our law firm can assist in assembling the required facts to back up your case, including law enforcement reports, photos and video footage, black box data, witness accounts, and medical documents.
Dealing with Insurance Adjusters and Defense Attorneys
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts whenever possible. It is essential to have an advocate who can interact with the insurer and safeguard your interests when dealing with insurance companies, which often strive to reduce payments. At our law firm, we have the experience and knowledge to help you get the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Benefits of Uninsured Motorist Insurance?
Florida roads can be unpredictable, and accidents with uninsured drivers can lead to significant financial strain. That's where uninsured motorist insurance comes in, providing a safety net to ensure you're not left shouldering the burden alone.
Financial Protection
The primary benefit of uninsured motorist insurance is its role as a financial protector. Uninsured motorist insurance helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other care costs associated with an accident caused by an uninsured driver, providing you with financial protection. It also covers passengers, so your loved ones are protected too.
Pain and Suffering Compensation
Uninsured motorist coverage may also compensate for pain and suffering damages, which health insurance typically doesn't cover. These non-economic damages account for physical discomfort, emotional distress, or trauma resulting from the accident.
Safeguard Against Hit-and-Run Accidents
Florida law considers hit-and-run scenarios under this coverage, providing another layer of security given how common these incidents are becoming on our roads today.
Coverage Beyond Auto Accidents
Some policies extend their benefits beyond car accidents alone. Depending on your specific plan details, uninsured motorist coverage could protect against incidents like being hit by a car as a pedestrian or cyclist, truly broadening its protective scope.
While we hope to never have to use our auto insurance policies beyond routine matters, life's unpredictability makes having comprehensive protection crucially important, especially when navigating Florida's busy roadways.
What Are the Limits of Uninsured Motorist Insurance?
In Florida, the policy limits available to you will depend on the specific insurance policy you purchase. Limits may vary, ranging from ten thousand to one million dollars or more for each person. Keep in mind that the policy limits are the maximum amount your insurer will pay towards medical bills or other damages you've suffered as a result of an accident caused by an uninsured driver.
There may be certain restrictions depending on the specific circumstances surrounding your case. For example, if multiple people are injured in one accident and they all file claims under the same policy, there could potentially be a cap on what each individual can receive due to total limits set by the policy you purchased.
When you work with us, our job is to make sure you're getting proper value for your case. Although the compensation you receive may be capped by the insurance policy limits, we can ensure your legal rights are protected through the claims process.
How Much Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cost in Florida?
Uninsured motorist insurance in Florida can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per year, depending on factors such as your age, driving record, and location. Insurers evaluate your risk profile to determine your premium, taking into account criteria such as:
- Your Age: Younger drivers typically pay more for uninsured motorist insurance because they are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents.
- Your Driving Record: If you have a history of traffic violations or accidents, insurers will consider you a high-risk driver and charge higher premiums.
- Your Location: Living in an area with a high number of uninsured motorists can also increase your premium costs.
Comparing quotes from different insurers can help you identify the policy that best fits your needs and budget. Shopping around can be advantageous, permitting you to assess costs and pick the plan that provides the best value while addressing your individual needs.
There are also ways to save on uninsured motorist coverage in Florida. For example, you could qualify for discounts if you bundle auto insurance with other types of policies like home or renters' insurance. Additionally, maintaining a clean driving record over time can lower your rates since safe drivers usually receive better pricing than those with histories of moving violations or at-fault accidents.
What to Do If You're Injured by an Uninsured Driver
If you've been injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, there are some steps you can take to protect your legal rights and maximize your personal injury claim.
Step 1: Report the Accident
Call the police and report the accident. This will create an official record of what happened, which will be helpful when dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings.
Step 2: Take Pictures and Photos at the Scene
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, you should take as many photos and videos as you can. Try to capture the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any other details that might be relevant to your personal injury claim.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not show up right away, and you want to make sure you're okay. Plus, having a record of your injuries will be important later on.
Step 4: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance company know what happened and that the other driver was uninsured. Many auto insurance policies require you to inform your insurer of an accident.
Step 5: Hire a Lawyer to Protect Your Legal Rights
Dealing with accidents involving uninsured drivers can be complicated, especially in Florida. You should get the help of an attorney who is knowledgeable in the legal system for managing claims involving uninsured drivers, particularly in Florida. At Spetsas Buist, we're here to help you navigate this challenging process, and you can reach us anytime at 321-LAWSUIT.
How A Lawyer Can Help You With Your Uninsured Motorist Claim
We will investigate your case thoroughly and negotiate with insurers on your behalf for fair settlement amounts based on actual damages incurred. We can also identify other liable parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or government entities responsible for road maintenance, to help you get the compensation you deserve. The more parties that are potentially liable, the more potential insurance coverage available.
Here's how we help our clients:
- Investigate the case
- Gather evidence
- Hire expert witnesses
- Demand payment from the insurance company
- Engage in negotiations
- File a lawsuit
- Engage in discovery
- Attend mediation
- Take the case to trial
Although every case can settle before trial and most cases settle prior to filing a lawsuit, we prepare our cases for trial. We have learned that insurance companies are more likely to pay proper value if they know that there is a real threat we will take them to trial. So, we make sure they feel the pressure through every step of the case.
Contact an Orlando Car Accident Lawyer To Help you with Your Uninsured Motorist Claim
If you've been injured by an uninsured driver in Florida and need help navigating the complexities surrounding uninsured motorist insurance claims process, don't hesitate to contact us at 321-LAWSUIT for your free consultation.
Our experienced lawyers specialize in handling these kinds of cases, ensuring our clients get the fair compensation they deserve. We know the insurance company's playbook, and we know what it takes to get maximum compensation for our clients. We're not a high-volume firm, and we are not scared to file a lawsuit, litigate a case, and take it to trial.
FAQs in Relation to How Does Uninsured Motorist insurance Work in Florida
What is uninsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage, often referred to as UM insurance, protects you if you're involved in a car accident with an at-fault driver who doesn't carry liability insurance. In Florida, it's not mandatory for drivers to have this type of auto insurance coverage; however, your insurance agent should offer it when selling you an auto policy.
Why would I need uninsured or underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage?
If the other driver involved in the automobile accident lacks sufficient car insurance or none at all (uninsured), your own uninsured/under-insured motorist bodily injury coverage can cover damages such as medical expenses and lost wages resulting from the collision.
Does my auto insurance plan include uninsured motorists property damage?
This depends on your specific policy details. Some policies may provide for both property damage and bodily injury caused by uninsured drivers while others might only cover one aspect. It’s crucial to review these specifics with your insurance companies.
Can I pursue compensation after an accident involving an under-insured driver?
Absolutely! If injured due to another party's negligence during a motor vehicle accident – whether they are insured adequately or not - you can seek legal recourse through a personal injury protection claim or lawsuit against them personally if their liability limits aren’t enough.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Pay For in Florida?
Uninsured motorist insurance covers two main things: bodily injury and property damage.
- Bodily Injury Coverage: If you're injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your uninsured motorist policy will help pay for your medical bills up to its limit.
- Property Damage Coverage: If your vehicle is damaged in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your uninsured motorist policy will help pay for the repairs.
What's the Minimum Insurance Coverage in Florida?
The minimum auto insurance coverage required in Florida includes $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). PIP covers 80% of reasonable medical expenses after an accident, regardless of who is at fault, while PDL pays for damage you cause to another person’s property. Although this meets the state minimum, it often isn’t enough to cover the high costs of medical treatment and vehicle repairs. Many drivers choose to add Bodily Injury Liability and Uninsured Motorist Coverage for better protection against serious injuries and uninsured drivers. Carrying more than the minimum coverage helps safeguard your finances if a major accident occurs.
Does Florida Require Drivers to Carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
No, Florida does not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. However, insurance companies must offer it, and drivers who decline must sign a waiver acknowledging they understand the coverage but choose not to buy it. Although it’s optional, UM coverage is highly recommended because Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers, and this coverage can protect you financially if you’re hit by someone without adequate insurance.