A Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Identify and Access All Available Compensation
If you’ve ever wondered why Florida drivers pay some of the highest car insurance rates in the country, take a look around the next time you're stuck in traffic. Odds are, one in every five drivers around you doesn’t have any car insurance at all.
A study from the Insurance Research Council shows that Florida ranks seventh in the nation for uninsured drivers. Even more alarming? The same report found that more than a third of drivers in this area (38.3%) are considered “underinsured.” In fact, Florida has the second-highest rate of underinsured drivers in the entire country.
What do these numbers really mean?
The fact that one in five Florida drivers is uninsured is a significant concern. That’s 20% of people on the road with zero coverage. If one of them hits you, there’s a good chance they won’t be able to pay for your injuries and other accident-related expenses (lost wages, future medical care, etc.).
Then there’s the underinsured group. These are individuals who purchased insurance, but only the minimum required by law. Often, that coverage falls short when the damage from a car accident begins to accumulate. With nearly 4 out of 10 drivers falling into this category, that’s a lot of risk on the road.
What exactly does “underinsured” mean?
In simple terms, being underinsured means a driver's coverage isn’t enough to pay for the expenses that result from a serious car accident. This occurs when a driver purchases just enough coverage to drive legally in Florida, but not enough to protect others in the event of an accident.
Here’s an example: Imagine a crash that results in $100,000 worth of injuries and damages. If the at-fault driver’s liability coverage caps at $10,000, you’re stuck figuring out how to recover the remaining $90,000. With medical costs and car repair bills climbing year after year, these kinds of shortfalls happen more than you’d think.
Why are Florida’s insurance gaps so extreme?
First, Florida is one of the few states that still uses a “no-fault” insurance system. Drivers are only required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL), but not bodily injury coverage. That’s a key reason so many people drive around without enough protection. They’re technically following the law, but they’re not financially prepared for a serious crash.
Second, there’s the cost. Florida’s insurance premiums are already among the highest in the country. According to Bankrate, full coverage in Florida is over $4,100. For many families, keeping coverage affordable often means cutting corners, which frequently involves opting for low coverage limits. That doesn't even account for the mix of fraud, high rates of litigation, and limited enforcement of minimum requirements.
How can I protect myself in a crash with an uninsured driver?
If you’re the kind of driver who takes your insurance seriously, pays for solid coverage, and follows the rules, you might assume you’re protected. However, if someone hits you and doesn’t have enough insurance (or any at all), you may have to rely on your own policy to make up the difference.
That’s where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage comes in. It’s optional in Florida, but it can be a financial lifesaver. This type of coverage steps in when the at-fault driver can’t pay for your medical bills, lost wages, or other expenses. Without it, you might find yourself in court, chasing compensation from someone who doesn’t have the money to give you in the first place.
Additionally, UM coverage protects you if you're in a crash with a hit-and-run driver who can't be identified. This is especially important, as nearly 25% of all car accidents in Florida involve hit-and-run incidents.
Injured by an uninsured driver in Florida? Get a trusted Tampa Law Firm on your side
If you were hit and injured by an uninsured driver in Florida, you’re probably wondering how you’re going to pay your medical bills and cover your lost income while you recover. The truth is, insurance companies often make it more complicated than necessary, even when you're using your PIP or UM coverage. That’s where the Tampa car accident lawyers at Armando Personal Injury Law come in. We understand the obstacles you're facing, and we’re ready to help you regain control.
Our team has years of experience navigating Florida’s insurance system, and we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of a crash with an uninsured driver. We fight hard for people who have done nothing wrong and are now left to pick up the pieces. Additionally, we take care of everything, allowing you to focus on your healing.
Don’t wait and hope things get better. Talk to a Tampa car accident lawyer who knows how to get real results. Contact us online or call us to schedule your free consultation today. We’ll listen to your story, clearly explain your potential options, and fight to secure the full compensation you deserve under Florida law.
“Armando was wonderful and always kept me updated about my claim. It was the best decision I made to go to him. I would recommend him to anyone in need of his services.” – B.S., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐