| Automobile vehicle owners, in Florida, are required to carry automobile
insurance. Proof of coverage is required prior to registering an
automobile. It is also necessary at renewal. There are three different
types of insurance: personal injury protection (PIP), property damage
liability (PDL) and bodily injury liability (BIL). In Florida, drivers
are required to carry PIP and PDL.
PIP insurance is often referred to as “No Fault” insurance. It doesn’t
matter who was at fault in the accident, this policy protects the
individuals in the covered vehicle – up to the policy maximum. If the
passengers have their own PIP policy, their policy will cover them in
lieu of the vehicle’s policy. Florida requires drivers to carry a PIP
policy with a minimum coverage amount of at least $10,000.
In addition, Florida drivers are required to carry PDL insurance in the
minimum coverage amount of $10,000. This insurance policy covers damage
to other vehicles or property. All required insurance policies must be
issued by an insurance agent licensed to write business in the state of
Florida. In addition, any vehicle registered with the state of Florida
requires insurance, regardless of whether or not it is being actively
driven.
BIL covers serious or deadly injury due to a vehicle accident. This
policy also provides money for a legal defense, if necessary. This
coverage is not required by the state of Florida.
There are significant penalties provided for drivers who do not
maintain proper insurance coverage. Consequences for not having proper
insurance include: license suspension for up to three years and fines
up to $500.
Individuals who want to avoid any civil penalties can return their
vehicle tag and registration to the state of Florida; then, no
insurance will be required. However, the automobile cannot be legally
driven without a tag and insurance.
Florida has different rules for motorcycle owners. Insurance is not
required in order to register a motorcycle. However, the driver is
personally responsible for any damage or injury as a result of the
motorcyclist. In certain circumstance, insurance may be required.
In Florida, “Driver’s wanted”, but only those with proper insurance – it’s the law. |