Under state law, individuals in Florida must meet the minimum car insurance requirements to drive. However, despite this regulation, some people still operate vehicles without insurance.
In 2019, the percentage of uninsured motorists in the state reached 20.4%. This offense has legal and financial consequences.
The legal implications of driving without insurance
Before driving your car in Florida, you must have an active auto insurance policy with at least $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP). Your policy should also include a $10,000 coverage for property damage liability per accident.
Since Florida is a no-fault state, you must first use your PIP insurance coverage to pay the expenses for treating your injuries, regardless of who caused the collision. Meanwhile, property damage liability insurance pays to replace other people’s property in an accident you cause.
First offenders must pay a $150 fine, while repeat offenders must pay $500. Penalties also include license suspension that lasts until offenders pay the fine and show an SR-22 form as proof of noncancelable insurance coverage. The state added this requirement to limit repeat offenders.
Serious offenses have more severe consequences. For instance, if you drive under the influence (DUI) without insurance, you may need an FR-44 form instead. This document shows that the offender is carrying even higher limits of liability coverage.
Getting in a car accident without insurance
Driving without insurance also has crucial financial implications, especially if you get in a car accident.
In this scenario, you may have to pay out of pocket for medical costs. If you do not have the financial means to compensate the injured party for injuries and damages, you may face a lawsuit. Additionally, you may face higher policy rates after a coverage lapse.