Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation. Estimates suggest that more than 1 in 5 drivers on our roads have no bodily injury insurance whatsoever. If one of them hits...
Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation. Estimates suggest that more than 1 in 5 drivers on our roads have no bodily injury insurance whatsoever. If one of them hits you, and you don't have the right coverage, you could be left with massive medical bills and no way to pay them. That's where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) coverage comes in. It is arguably the most important insurance you can buy.
What Is UM Coverage?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver. If you are hit by someone who has no insurance, your UM policy pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, just as the other driver's insurance would have. It also covers you if the other driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your damages (Underinsured Motorist).
Why PIP Isn't Enough
Many people think, 'I have PIP, so I'm covered.' But PIP only pays 80% of your bills up to $10,000. A serious accident can easily result in $50,000 or $100,000 in medical costs. Without UM coverage, you would have to sue the at-fault driver personally. But drivers without insurance usually don't have assets to sue for.
Stacked vs. Non-Stacked UM
When buying UM, you can choose 'stacked' or 'non-stacked.' Stacked coverage allows you to combine the limits for each vehicle you insure. For example, if you have three cars with $50,000 in UM each, stacked coverage gives you $150,000 in protection for any accident. It is slightly more expensive but provides vastly better protection.
How to Check Your Policy
Insurance agents often discourage UM coverage to keep your premium quote low. In Florida, you must sign a specific form to reject UM coverage. If you didn't sign that form, you may have coverage by default. We recommend checking your declarations page today to ensure you have UM.
Using Your UM Coverage
Using your UM coverage does not raise your rates if the accident was not your fault. It is coverage you paid for, specifically for this situation. Don't be afraid to use it.
Contact Emas Law Group Today
In a state like Florida, driving without UM coverage is a gamble you can't afford to take. If you've been hit by an uninsured driver, don't assume you're out of luck. Contact Emas Law Group. We can review your policy, investigate all possible sources of coverage, and fight to get you the compensation you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UM coverage mandatory in Florida?
No, it is optional. However, insurance companies must offer it to you, and you must reject it in writing if you don't want it.
Does UM cover hit-and-run accidents?
Yes! If you are the victim of a hit-and-run and the driver is never found, your UM coverage will treat it as an uninsured motorist claim.
Can I add UM coverage after an accident?
No, you must have the coverage in place at the time of the accident. This is why we urge you to add it now.