Florida has specific minimum vehicle insurance coverage requirements set by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While the state does not require all types of insurance, such as gap and collision coverage, it does have mandatory minimums for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL).
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $10,000 – PIP, also known as “no-fault” insurance, covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. It also covers lost wages and other expenses related to the accident. Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your PIP coverage will pay for your medical expenses up to the policy limit, irrespective of who caused the accident.
- Property Damage Liability (PDL): $10,000 – PDL coverage pays for damage you cause to another person’s property, such as their vehicle or a fence, in an accident.
Other insurance coverage types like gap coverage, collision coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are not legally required in Florida. However, many drivers choose to carry additional coverage to protect themselves financially. Here’s an overview of these non-mandatory coverage types:
- Gap Coverage: This insurance covers the difference between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the remaining balance on your loan or lease if the car is totaled or stolen. While not legally required, it may be required by your lender if you have a loan or lease on your vehicle.
- Collision Coverage: This insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Though not legally required in Florida, it is often recommended for newer or more valuable vehicles.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or has insufficient coverage. While not legally required in Florida, it can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Bodily Injury Liability (BI): Although not a legal requirement in Florida, BI coverage can protect you financially if you’re found at fault for causing injuries to others in an accident. Many drivers choose to carry this coverage for added protection.
Remember that these minimum requirements are just the baseline for legal compliance. It’s often wise to carry higher coverage limits or additional types of coverage based on your individual needs and the value of your vehicle to ensure adequate financial protection.
