The Sunshine State includes many exciting attractions and bustling metropolitan areas for motorists to explore and traverse. However, whether you’re enjoying a trip up the coast or running daily errands, even the most skilled drivers must prioritize suitable auto insurance.
How Does Auto Insurance Work?
Auto insurance policies act as contracts between you and your insurance company. You can work with a carrier or agent to select a policy and customize its details according to your unique needs, budget and risk tolerance. Once you’ve finalized your policy, you’ll need to pay regular (e.g., monthly, quarterly or annual) premiums. In exchange for these payments, your insurer agrees to pay for covered losses per your policy’s specifications.
Is Coverage Required in Florida?
Like most states, drivers in the Sunshine State are legally required to carry auto insurance. Failing to adhere to these obligations could impose significant penalties, including fines and having your driver’s license suspended. Specifically, a compliant auto insurance policy in Florida must include the following coverage:
- Property damage liability coverage can help pay for other parties’ repair, rebuild or replacement costs if you’re at fault in an accident that damages their property, such as vehicles or buildings.
- Personal injury protection (PIP) can cover medical expenses, lost wages and other costs if you or your passengers are injured in an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
What Else Can My Policy Cover?
While property damage liability coverage and PIP are legally required in Florida, you may also want to purchase other financial protections within your policy. Consider the following possibilities:
- Bodily injury liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Roadside assistance coverage
How Much Does Insurance Cost?
Insurance carriers may look at several criteria when quoting you a rate for auto coverage. Specifically, they may consider the following:
- Vehicle specifications (e.g., make, model and year)
- Personal information (e.g., ages and genders of the drivers)
How to Get the Right Auto Insurance in Florida
Contact Gene Smith Insurance to learn more about auto coverage and find the right policy.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.