Many insured’s often ask questions regarding their Florida Auto Insurance Policy that reference Florida law and the effects they have on their coverage’s and premiums here are a few of those top questions:

What is Florida No Fault Insurance?

No fault applies to about 12 states including Florida, and removes liability for damages to others therefore each insured’s policy pays for their and their occupants own Personal Injury Protection ( PIP) or medical bills up to the maximum despite who is at fault.

What is the minimum auto coverage required in Florida?

The Florida No-Fault Law, requires all owners of automobile to carry a minimum of $10,000 of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 of property damage liability, traditionally 10/20/10

Auto Lease companies usually require 100/300/50. Also those convicted of DUI will be required to carry 100/300/50 for 3-5 years.

Does Florida Comprehensive Coverage cover my windshield if it is cracked by a rock and do I have to pay the deductible?
Yes as long as you carry the coverage for comprehensive. Florida Statute 627.7288 states that the deductible shall not apply to windshield damages. A policy that provides liability coverage only will not cover your windshield

What is stacked and unstacked uninsured motorist and do I need this coverage?

Uninsured Motorist covers bodily injury under your own policy such as in the case when another driver is at fault but is uninsured therefore there is no one to hold liable for your bodily injury damages or pay your medical cost, this coverage also covers that amount over and above the coverage carried by the liable party.

Example – The liable insured carriers Florida state minimums of 10/20/10 and your bodily injury damages equate to $50,000 your uninsured motorist would pick up where the drivers liability and your 10,000 in PIP coverage end. This can be confusing so talking with your agent can clarify in detail, you have the option to reject uninsured motorist but typically not a good idea as you are leaving yourself vulnerable to not coverage at a time when drivers are letting this coverage go because of tough economical times.

Stacked UM coverage simply combines two or more autos on the same policy to determine the total UM coverage for the injured in any one accident.

Which cars are stolen most often and are likely to create a higher insurance premium?

The top vehicle to be stolen is the Cadillac Escalade, following close behind are the F-250 crew cab pickup, Infiniti G37 two-door car, Dodge Charger with the HEMI engine and Chevrolet Corvette Z06 according to the insurance institute for highway safety as favorites among insurance theft claims. .

Do I qualify for any discounts that may help lower my premium?

Primarily discounts are applied for safe car discounts such as: antilock brakes, airbags, anti theft systems, Lo-Jack vehicle trackers, but newer discounts have emerged for economical cars such as hybrids and green cars. Additional discounts for vehicles used for pleasure rather than for work and school include discounts for retired individuals, low millage vehicles. Also combining cars on one policy for a multi-line discount can make a difference. Carriers are even offering breaks for students on their parents insurance if they have a 3.0 or higher GPA as a good student discount or those students who take a good driver course.

Do I have comprehensive and collision coverage, and is it imperative that I include this?

Collision covers damage to your auto when you auto impacts with another or anything, regardless of whether it is a car, a guardrail or a light post.

Comprehensive coverage covers all other losses not excluded such as a falling tree, theft or fire damage or even a impact with your windshield.

Collision and Comprehensive coverage make sense when you have a car that could be costly to repair or replace parts for. If you stay middle of the road at about $1000 for each deductible you are both protecting yourself from high out of pocket expense for damages to your auto and keeping your premium at a comfortable level. Deductible options vary from $100, to $2000. If the car is a heap or it’s your sons first car and you paid cash for it used then you may opt for eliminating the coverage and pay damages out of pocket if they occur. Having a low deductible on a inexpensive older car just would not be logical if the cost to repair were not worthy of the coverage cost.

Author Bio: Christopher Beard is a Florida insurance agent who uses automation to simplify the consumer buying experience. He is the president of Trinity 1 Financial Group and works with clients to select the right carrier and coverage for all their insurance needs. Cut Your Tampa Florida Auto Insurance Rate www.Trinity1FinancialGroup.com