You probably know that all drivers in Florida must carry automobile insurance that meets certain minimum limits. But those limits often are not enough to pay for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages that result from major accidents. These expenses can add up to a small fortune, and if you don’t want to pay them out of pocket, it’s a good idea to invest in a policy that includes additional coverage and higher policy limits.
Unfortunately, an alarming number of drivers in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, and throughout South Florida are uninsured. If you are injured in a collision with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, it’s important that you explore all possible ways to recover compensation. This is where an accident attorney can help.
The Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers at Englander Peebles can evaluate your situation, examine your policy, and investigate your collision to identify all possible ways to pursue compensation for your injuries. We can help you navigate the claims process from start to finish and handle all communication with the insurance adjuster on your behalf. Call (954) 231-1384 today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Florida Car Insurance Coverage Options
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means anyone that all insurance policies must come with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP insurance will cover you and/or certain passengers who are hurt in a collision, no matter who was at fault. Your PIP coverage will also pay out if you are injured as a passenger in another person’s vehicle or if you are stuck by a vehicle as a pedestrian.
The minimum required insurance limits for car insurance in Florida are $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). PDL pays for damages that you or certain members of your family cause to other people’s property in a collision.
You should also seriously consider investing in the following types of optional coverage:
- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage covers expenses related to the death or injury of another person in an accident you cause;
- Collision Coverage pays for repairs or a replacement vehicle if your car is damaged in an accident;
- Comprehensive Coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle after a non-accident event such as inclement weather, theft, or vandalism; and
- Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage pays for injuries you sustain when caused by another driver who has little or no bodily injury coverage.
Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance in Florida
Florida’s car insurance laws are in place to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Driving without coverage not only could lead to financial turmoil if you are involved in an accident, but it also might result in the suspension of your driver’s license, in addition to other serious consequences.
Contact the Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Attorney at Englander Peebles Today
Even if you have insurance coverage, there’s no guarantee that your provider will step up to the plate and offer a fair payout. Insurance companies have a financial incentive to undervalue and deny claims, and insurance adjusters use a variety of strategies to minimize payouts.
If you were seriously injured or lost a loved one in a car accident, contact Englander Peebles to discuss your case with a seasoned car accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale. We represent clients throughout Florida. Call (954) 231-1384 today to set up a free consultation.