As a vehicle owner, you know how important it is to have the right type of auto insurance if you ever have an accident with your vehicle. However, depending on the age of your car or truck you may want to consider different options for your car insurance that protect your vehicle.
To understand what types of auto insurance you need in Florida, you should first consider your vehicle. If you are driving an older car that has a low value and you can afford to repair if it is damaged or in an accident, or if you are a very safe and very low mileage driver, basic insurance may be all you need.
On the other hand, if you have a new vehicle you may be required to carry a specific level of auto insurance in Florida based on your auto lender’s policies. This can increase your monthly auto insurance premiums but it also protects the lender should the vehicle be damaged or in an accident.
Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage
You are not required to have uninsured motorist coverage in the state, but it is essential to understand the risks that you take without this coverage. Not having UMC means that if the at-fault driver has little or no auto insurance in Florida you may have to pay for your medical costs yourself or at the very least hire an attorney to try and recoup your medical costs from the at-fault driver.
If you have the uninsured motorist coverage your insurance company will provide the payout, leaving you without the hassle of trying to recover from the other driver.
Carefully Look at the Minimum Coverage Amounts
While there are minimum coverage requirements set forth by the state, depending on your vehicle, the amount that you drive, where you drive and the age and cost of your vehicle the minimum coverage amount may not be enough. You should also look honestly at your driving record as well as the driving history of anyone else that may be operating the vehicle.
Many drivers try to save on auto insurance in Florida by purchasing the minimum coverage only to find that they end up paying a lot more in out of pocket costs and deductibles. This not only is cost-ineffective but it can end up hurting you if this impacts your credit record for missed payments or having to borrow money for vehicle repairs.
Collision and Comprehensive
Deciding if you need collision or comprehensive coverage, or both, really depends on the cost of your vehicle, the risk of an accident or damage to the vehicle or the likelihood that the vehicle may be stolen, flooded or otherwise damaged when not driving. The pros and cons of carrying collision and comprehensive coverage is one that needs to be weighed carefully depending on your individual tolerance for risk.
The best option is to talk with an agent by Ackerman Insurance about the requirements for auto insurance in Florida based on your driving habits and record, the age and cost of your vehicle, and the type of driving that you do on a regular basis.