Florida car insurance: Why experts recommend more than just minimum coverage

Core Insights - Florida drivers are required to have minimum personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) insurance, but many opt for additional coverage due to high risks associated with uninsured motorists, insurance fraud, and severe weather [1][2][4] Minimum Car Insurance Requirements - Florida mandates a minimum of $10,000 for both PIP and PDL coverage per accident, as it operates under a "no-fault" insurance system [2][28] - PIP covers injuries to the policyholder and passengers regardless of fault, while PDL covers damages to others' property [2][28] Additional Coverage Considerations - Given Florida's high-risk environment, additional coverage such as bodily injury (BI) liability is recommended, even though it is not mandated for most drivers [3][7] - BI liability helps cover costs associated with injuries or wrongful death claims if the policyholder is at fault in an accident [7][11] Insurance Fraud and Legislative Changes - Florida has a high rate of auto insurance fraud, particularly involving staged accidents, which has led to increased premiums for consumers [4][34] - Recent legislative changes, including Florida Senate Bill 1002, aim to reduce fraud by prohibiting repair shops from offering incentives for insurance claims related to windshield repairs [33][35] - Following these reforms, lawsuits related to glass claims decreased by 500% in 2024, prompting major insurers to consider rate decreases in 2025 [36] Recommendations for Coverage - The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) recommends that Florida drivers carry at least 100/300/100 liability coverage limits, along with optional comprehensive, collision, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverages for adequate financial protection [11][12] - Comprehensive coverage is particularly advised to protect against severe weather hazards, theft, and vandalism, with Florida being one of the few states that does not impose a deductible for windshield repairs [17][18] Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage - Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is crucial in Florida, where 38.3% of drivers are underinsured and over 20% are uninsured [12][13] - This coverage provides additional funds for medical expenses and other costs if the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance [12][19] Filing Claims and Legal Requirements - Florida drivers must file PIP claims within 14 days of an accident to ensure coverage for medical expenses [22] - Proof of insurance must be maintained, and failure to do so can result in license suspension [23][28]