“I have full coverage” – if I had a nickel for every time I’ve heard a client or prospective client utter those words I would be a millionaire – well, not a millionaire, but I would at least have a couple hundred dollars. What I mean to say is a majority of drivers on Florida’s roadways have no idea what type of insurance coverages they have. And sadly, most people I talk to assume if they have purchased “full coverage” they have insurance that will cover any expenses they incur in an automobile collision regardless of fault. This could not be further from the truth.
What Does Full Coverage Insurance Mean in the State of Florida?
So, what exactly does “full coverage” mean? In Florida, typically purchasing “full coverage” auto insurance means nothing more than purchasing the minimum coverage required by Florida’s No-Fault Statute (Fla. Stat. § 627.736). And, if that is the case, the so-called “full coverage” insurance policy has several gaping holes which could leave an unsuspecting consumer holding the bag for damages thought to be covered. In Florida, the only insurance a motorist is required to have is:
- Personal Injury Protection Coverage (also known as “no fault benefits” or “PIP”)
- Property Damage Liability Coverage
The glaring deficiency of the minimum required insurance coverages in Florida is the lack of “bodily injury liability” coverage. Florida is one of only two states in the nation that does not have some form of mandatory injury liability coverage (New Hampshire is the other). This means that if you cause an automobile collision resulting in injuries to another person your insurance may not cover your liability for those injuries. This can be financially devastating in the event you cause serious injuries to another and can result in civil judgments that can force you into bankruptcy or cost you dearly for the rest of your life. Luckily the experienced Tallahassee Car Accident Lawyers at Nonni Homola are here to help you with your case.
What Happens if the Person Who Hit Me Doesn’t Have Insurance?
The lack of mandatory bodily injury coverage also has ramifications for the injured party. Think of it this way – if you are injured by another driver in Tallahassee who doesn’t have bodily injury coverage that person most likely doesn’t have the type of assets that will make it easy to collect money from a court judgment. Practically speaking, this means you could be stuck in a legal battle with the person for years, get a large judgment and then spend years trying to collecting it. Luckily, insurance companies in Florida offer what is known as uninsured motorist covered. This coverage will actually “step into the shoes” of the at-fault party and pay bodily injury benefits to you on that person’s behalf. Often times the existence of this coverage can mean the difference between getting a monetary recovery and getting nothing at all. This coverage also can help offset medical bills and lost wages not covered by the mandatory PIP benefits which will only cover a portion of those damages.
What Does Full Coverage Insurance Not Cover in Florida?
“Full Coverage” also does not include collision or comprehensive coverages. Collision coverage will pay for damages to your vehicle that resulted from a wreck with another vehicle or any other damage resulting from operation of the vehicle regardless of fault. Comprehensive coverage will cover damage to your vehicle resulting that occurs while the vehicle is not in use. For example, hail damage, vandalism, fire damage, etc.
Reach Out to Out Tallahassee Car Accident Attorneys Today!
The next time you renew your auto insurance policy do not assume you are completely covered when you are told you have “full coverage.” If you have questions, get a second opinion, shop around and, if need be, get a free consultation with an attorney in Tallahassee who is learned about these matters and discuss it with him/her. If you have any questions about your auto insurance policy please contact an attorney at Nonni Homola today for a free initial consultation.
Vinse has been practicing law for over 40 years. During his time, he has earned his reputation as one of the top attorneys in both legal ability and ethical standards. Vinse was born in Gainesville and grew up in Pensacola. He graduated from the University of South Florida and obtained his law degree from the University of Florida in 1976 following four years of domestic and foreign service as an officer in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Captain.
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