I’ve seen firsthand the devastation that can occur when drivers are involved in accidents with uninsured or underinsured motorists. Despite the state’s mandatory insurance laws, many drivers either don’t have insurance or carry only the minimum required, which often isn’t enough to cover serious injuries or vehicle damage. That’s why it’s crucial for every Florida automobile owner to include uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage in their policies. In this blog, I’ll explain the importance of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, as well as a case study we’ve seen before illustrating the potential consequences of not having it.

The Importance of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage for Florida Automobile Owners 

1. Protection Against Uninsured Drivers: Florida ranks among the states with the highest percentage of uninsured drivers. According to the Insurance Research Council, about 20% of Florida drivers are uninsured. If you’re in an accident with one of these drivers, your own UM coverage can step in to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

2. Supplementing Insufficient Coverage: Even if the at-fault driver has insurance, it may not be enough. Florida’s minimum liability coverage is $10,000 for property damage and $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP). Serious accidents often result in damages far exceeding these limits. UIM coverage can make up the difference, ensuring you’re not left with unpaid bills.

3. Comprehensive Peace of Mind: Knowing you have uninsured motor coverage can provide peace of mind. Accidents are stressful enough without the added worry of whether the at-fault driver can cover your damages. With uninsured motor coverage, you can focus on your recovery, knowing that your financial needs will be met.

    

Case Study: The Consequences of No Uninsured Motor Coverage

Consider the case of Maribelle Garcia, a client who learned the hard way the importance of UM coverage. Maribelle was driving home from work when she was T-boned at an intersection by another driver who ran a red light. The impact was severe, causing Maribelle significant injuries, including broken bones and a concussion.

Maribelle’s medical bills quickly accumulated to over $100,000, not to mention the additional costs of rehabilitation and lost wages. Unfortunately, the at-fault driver carried only the minimum insurance required by Florida law, which covered a mere $10,000 of Maribelle’s medical expenses. Worse still, the driver had no other assets to pursue.

Maribelle did not have uninsured motor coverage on her own policy, leaving her with limited options. Despite winning a judgment against the at-fault driver, the reality was that she would never see that money. The financial strain added to the physical and emotional toll of her injuries, causing immense hardship.

If Maribelle had carried uninsured motor coverage, her own insurance would have stepped in to cover her remaining medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Instead, she faced years of financial struggle, all of which could have been avoided with the right coverage.

Conclusion

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is not just an optional add-on; it’s a vital part of protecting yourself and your family on Florida’s roads. With the high number of uninsured drivers and the often-insufficient minimum liability coverage, uninsured motor coverage ensures you’re not left vulnerable after an accident. On average in Florida, around 6% of motorists are either underinsured, or completely uninsured! As a personal injury attorney, I’ve seen too many cases where the lack of this coverage resulted in financial devastation. Don’t let that happen to you—talk to your insurance agent today and make sure you’re adequately covered.

If you have any questions about UM/UIM coverage or need assistance with a personal injury claim, don’t hesitate to contact Fischetti Law Group at 833-MIKE-247 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the insurance system and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.