Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of auto insurance coverage that provides protection for drivers and passengers in the event of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured negligent driver. In Florida, uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law, but it is highly recommended.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
- Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of insurance that provides coverage for bodily injury or property damage that results from an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. It can also provide coverage for hit-and-run accidents.
There are two types of Uninsured Motorist Coverage
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage (UMBI)
- UMBI provides coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering that result from an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Uninsured motorist property damage coverage (UMPD)
- UMPD provides coverage for damage to your vehicle or property that results from an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Florida?
- Uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law in Florida, but it is highly recommended. Florida is a no-fault state, which means that each driver’s own insurance company is responsible for covering their medical expenses and lost wages in the event of an accident, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if the other driver is at fault and does not have insurance, you may be left without coverage for damages to your vehicle or property.
- Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage can provide additional protection in the event that the other driver’s insurance is not sufficient to cover your medical expenses and other damages. It can also provide coverage in hit-and-run accidents where the other driver cannot be identified.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage should I have?
- The amount of uninsured motorist coverage you should have depends on your individual circumstances, including your budget and the value of your vehicle. It is important to remember that the minimum amount of insurance required by law in Florida may not be enough to cover all of your expenses in the event of an accident.
When choosing Uninsured Motorist Coverage, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The value of your vehicle.
- Your financial situation.
- The potential cost of medical expenses and lost wages.
- The likelihood of being involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
How does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works In Florida?
- If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver in Florida, your uninsured motorist coverage will kick in. Your insurance company may cover the cost of medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages that result from the accident.
- In the event of a hit-and-run accident, you will need to report the accident to the police and your insurance company. Your uninsured motorist coverage may provide coverage for damages to your vehicle and any injuries you sustained in the accident.
- If the other driver is underinsured, your uninsured motorist coverage will provide additional coverage to make up the difference between their insurance coverage and the actual cost of the damages.
Conclusion
Uninsured motorist coverage is an important type of insurance coverage that can provide protection in the event of a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. However, your insurance company may deny or underpay the compensation you are entitled to. My305 Attorneys can help navigate the legal process and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses resulting from an uninsured or underinsured negligent driver.
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