Skip to main content
Blog
Car accidents involving at-fault drivers who lack or have no insurance aren’t rare, especially in Florida, where thousands of drivers get behind the wheel every day without adequate coverage.
If you are injured in an auto accident that’s not your fault, understanding the importance of uninsured motorist coverage in Florida could be the difference between financial hardship and securing the compensation you deserve.
At The Morgan Law Group, our Florida auto accident lawyers help individuals pursue their injury claims, particularly when dealing with uninsured or underinsured motorists.
Below, we’ll walk you through the critical facts about uninsured motorist coverage, including why it matters, what it offers, and the considerations – pros and cons – every Florida driver should weigh before making a decision.
Florida’s Rate of Uninsured Motorists
With such a high volume of registered vehicles, you might expect most drivers to comply with state insurance requirements. However, as of July 2025, the rate of uninsured motorists in Florida is 5.44% according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This percentage translates to approximately 902,812 uninsured vehicles out of the 16,586,994 non-commercial vehicles registered in the state.
While this rate is lower than in previous years, it is important to remember that every one of those uninsured vehicles represents a potential financial risk for law-abiding drivers. In the aftermath of a collision, as a victim, you may find yourself facing enormous medical bills, lost income, and other damages with no straightforward path to recovery – unless you have uninsured motorist coverage in Florida.
Are Drivers Required to Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida?
Florida law requires all drivers to carry at least $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance. However, uninsured motorist coverage (UM coverage) is not mandatory under Florida law. This means drivers can opt out of uninsured motorist coverage by signing a waiver, but many insurance professionals and attorneys strongly recommend keeping it in place.
Even though it is optional, uninsured motorist coverage offers a safety net when an at-fault driver either does not carry bodily injury liability insurance (BIL) or has fled the scene (as in a hit-and-run). Given that a significant portion of drivers either lack proper insurance or carry only the bare minimum required by law, having UM coverage can be crucial for protecting yourself and your passengers.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover?
Uninsured motorist coverage in Florida is designed to step in when the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. This type of insurance is meant to cover the costs that the responsible driver’s insurance would have paid if they had sufficient coverage.
Uninsured motorist coverage in Florida comes in two primary forms:
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
UM coverage applies when you are injured in a car accident caused by a driver who has no insurance at all. This coverage pays for your bodily injuries and, in some cases, for your passengers as well.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
UIM coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver does have insurance, but their policy limits are too low to fully compensate you for your injuries and losses.
UM/UIM coverage typically helps with:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term rehabilitation or therapy
- Funeral expenses (in the case of wrongful death)
- Other related damages (depending on policy terms)
Both UM and UIM coverage options are typically bundled together in auto insurance policies. You may select “stacked” or “non-stacked” UM/UIM coverage, which affects how benefits are calculated across multiple vehicles.
Also, it’s important to note that PIP insurance – Florida’s required no-fault insurance – only pays for up to 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to $10,000, regardless of who was at fault. Serious injuries and extended treatment can quickly surpass this limit. Uninsured motorist coverage bridges that financial gap, offering greater peace of mind for accident victims.
Pros of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance in Florida comes with several significant benefits:
Financial Protection After a Crash
If you are hit by a driver with no insurance, or by a hit-and-run driver, your uninsured motorist coverage can pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering that exceed the limits of your PIP coverage. This is especially important if you sustain serious injuries that require surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term care.
Coverage for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Uninsured motorist coverage in Florida can also protect you if you are struck by an uninsured driver while walking or biking. This benefit extends to family members living in your household, offering a broader level of protection beyond traditional auto accidents.
Protection Against Underinsured Drivers
Underinsured motorist coverage helps fill the gap when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient. Many drivers in Florida only carry the minimum required coverage, which may not be enough to compensate you for severe injuries or permanent disability.
Safeguarding Your Future
Without adequate coverage, a serious accident could put your savings, home, or other assets at risk. UM/UIM coverage acts as a financial buffer, giving you the resources to recover and rebuild.
Knowing that you are protected against uninsured or underinsured drivers can give you peace of mind every time you or your family gets behind the wheel.
Cons of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
While the benefits of UM coverage are substantial, it’s important to weigh the potential drawbacks before making a decision.
Higher Premiums
Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto policy can increase your premiums. Depending on your insurance provider, vehicle type, and personal driving history, these additional costs may be significant, especially if you opt for higher coverage limits or “stacked” UM/UIM coverage.
Policy Complexity
Insurance policies in Florida can be complicated. Choosing between “stacked” and “non-stacked” UM/UIM coverage, understanding policy limits, and determining how these options interact with other types of insurance can be confusing for many policyholders.
- Stacked Coverage: Allows you to combine the UM/UIM limits from multiple vehicles on your policy, increasing the amount available for your claim.
- Non-Stacked Coverage: Limits your UM/UIM benefits to the coverage amount listed for each vehicle.
Selecting the right option may require guidance from an experienced auto accident lawyer in Florida, particularly when maximizing your compensation after a crash.
Disputes with Your Own Insurer
Filing an uninsured motorist claim means you are seeking compensation from your own insurance company. Unfortunately, insurance companies sometimes dispute or minimize these claims, even when your coverage should apply. This can lead to delays, denials, or offers that do not reflect the full value of your injuries.
Overlapping or Duplicate Coverage
Depending on your personal circumstances and other available insurance, you may already have coverage that overlaps with some uninsured motorist benefits, such as health insurance, disability insurance, or MedPay. However, it is important to note that these policies may not cover the same damages, and uninsured motorist coverage is specifically designed for accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists.
Cost of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
The cost of uninsured motorist coverage in Florida can vary based on several factors, including:
- Your insurance company
- The coverage limits you select
- Whether you choose stacked or non-stacked UM/UIM coverage
- The number of vehicles insured under your policy
- Your driving history and location
On average, adding UM/UIM coverage might cost between $50 and $200 per year per vehicle. Stacked coverage tends to be more expensive but offers higher potential payouts.
The actual price you pay will depend on the specifics of your policy and the risks associated with your location. Given that even a moderate injury can result in tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills and lost income, the cost of uninsured motorist coverage in Florida is often considered a worthwhile investment for added financial security.
What to Do After a Car Accident Involving an Uninsured Motorist
If you are involved in a car accident in Florida and the other driver is uninsured or flees the scene, it is critical to take certain steps to protect your rights and preserve your ability to make a successful UM/UIM claim.
Here’s what you should do:
- Call Law Enforcement: Always report the accident to local police or the Florida Highway Patrol, especially in hit-and-run situations or when the other driver lacks insurance.
- Gather Evidence: Take photographs of the scene, your injuries, property damage, and the other vehicle (if present). Collect names, contact information, and statements from witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Documentation of your injuries is essential for your insurance claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Let them know you may be making a UM/UIM claim.
- Don’t Accept Quick Settlements: Insurance adjusters may offer a quick payout to resolve your claim for less than it’s worth. Consult with an auto accident lawyer in Florida to review your case before accepting any offers.
- Consult a Car Accident Attorney: An attorney can evaluate your case, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure you receive the full compensation available under your policy.
What Happens if You Crash and Don’t Have UM Coverage in Florida?
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver – and you don’t carry uninsured motorist coverage in Florida – you may find yourself in a difficult position.
Your PIP coverage will pay up to $10,000 for medical expenses and lost wages, but this is often insufficient for severe injuries. Unless you have other applicable insurance, you will need to pursue the at-fault driver directly in court, which is rarely successful if that driver lacks assets or income.
This reality can leave accident victims responsible for substantial medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and other losses. By comparison, drivers with uninsured motorists coverage in Florida have an additional resource for recovery, making it easier to rebuild after a serious crash.
Consult an Auto Accident Lawyer in Florida to Help You Post-Accident
Choosing whether to add uninsured motorist coverage in Florida to your policy is a critical decision that can have far-reaching consequences for you and your loved ones. While uninsured motorist coverage comes with additional costs, its benefits in protecting you from financial loss and uncertainty are considerable.
If you have been injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, or if you are unsure about your coverage options, The Morgan Law Group’s seasoned auto accident lawyers in Florida can review your policy, explain your rights, and advocate for your best interests, helping you pursue the full compensation you deserve after a traumatic event.
Call us today at (305) 504-7642 or contact us using our online form to schedule a free consultation.
