Why You Need UM Coverage in Florida (BI Isn’t Required)
Reviewed by Michael P. Maddux, Esq. | Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer | Florida Super Lawyer for 16 Consecutive Years
One of the most surprising things many people learn after a car accident is that Florida does not require drivers to carry Bodily Injury (BI) liability coverage, even if they cause the crash. We often hear clients say, “I thought that was mandatory.” Unfortunately, it’s not.
This gap in Florida law can leave injured victims in a difficult position. If the at-fault driver does not carry BI coverage, there may be no insurance available to pay for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages resulting from the accident. Even when injuries are serious, recovery can be limited or nonexistent without proper coverage in place.
That is why it is critical to protect yourself by carrying Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own auto insurance policy. UM coverage steps in when the at-fault driver has no BI insurance or does not have enough coverage to fully compensate you for your injuries. In many cases, UM coverage is the difference between being financially protected and being left to cover expenses on your own.
Don’t wait until after an accident to discover what your policy does or does not cover. Reviewing your insurance now can help ensure you’re fully protected before you ever need it. If you’re unsure how your policy works or whether you have adequate UM coverage, call our office. We’re happy to review your policy at no cost and help you understand your options.