As outlined in F.S. 627.727, neither UIM nor UM is strictly required in Florida. However, insurers must offer it standard with every car insurance policy. You can opt not to have it, but only with a signed waiver. Most insured drivers in Florida have at least some UM/UIM coverage, which is good because Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers, as well as very low liability mandates. Bodily injury coverage isn’t required for most drivers in the Sunshine State, and only $10,000 in property damage liability is obligatory.
If you have been in a Jacksonville car accident and you have UM/UIM insurance questions be sure to call Henry Gare at 904-387-6101.
Florida is a no-fault car insurance state. That means all drivers are supposed to be covered by personal injury protection (aka, PIP) in the event of a crash – regardless of whose fault it was. But PIP only provides a maximum of $10,000. If you meet the serious injury threshold, you can step outside of that system and claim damages from the at-fault driver. If that driver is uninsured or underinsured, you can then file a claim for UM/UIM coverage.
Why is it so important to have Florida Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Because there are 215 drivers in the United States and approximately 32 million uninsured drivers! In Florida 20% of drivers have no insurance!
