Why Buy Auto Insurance?
November 13, 2020
All states except Virginia and New Hampshire have mandatory auto insurance requirements. Motorists in Virginia can pay an uninsured motor vehicle fee and New Hampshire car owners have the option of posting a cash bond. If you live and drive in Florida or Georgia, the law requires you to carry certain amounts of auto insurance coverage that can play out in multiple ways, depending upon the state and your specific circumstances.
Even though you are not worried about losing the value of your vehicle in an accident, auto insurance helps protect you and your passengers with payments for medical bills in case of injury. Florida law requires people who own and operate vehicles to have personal injury protection (PIP) and coverage for property damage liability. Also called no-fault insurance, PIP coverage protects you from driving your car, in someone else’s car, walking, and riding a bicycle. Georgia, which is not a no-fault state, requires drivers to have minimum bodily injury liability coverage based on per person and per accident amounts.
Whether it is to pay for property damage liability or bodily injury, buying auto insurance helps protect you and your family from unexpected expenses that can be a major amount of money. Moreover, having the right coverage can give you peace of mind while potentially saving you thousands of dollars should you make a mistake. For more information about what coverages are best for you, talk with one of our experienced auto insurance agents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Insurance
Do I have to show proof of auto insurance if stopped in Florida?
In the state of Florida, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle on a roadway without proof of PIP (personal injury protection) insurance or evidence of financial responsibility (property damage liability backed by insurance, a surety bond, real estate bond, or government bond).
Do I have to show proof of auto insurance if stopped in Georgia?
As part of the state’s statutes, driving without proof of auto insurance in Georgia is a criminal offense that can result in fines and jail time. Moreover, drivers with a vehicle registered in Georgia must always carry proof of liability insurance coverage in their car or truck.
What does PIP auto insurance cover in Florida?
Florida PIP (also called no-fault insurance) is required coverage for anyone who owns a vehicle registered in the state. This type of personal injury protection covers 80% of your medical expenses, medical expenses for certain passengers in your vehicle, and 60% of your lost wages regardless of who was at-fault for an accident. Moreover, it provides coverage if you are riding in someone’s car, riding a bicycle, or walking as a pedestrian.
Why do Florida drivers have to show financial responsibility?
Following most auto accidents in Florida, each driver’s PIP (personal injury protection) will cover a specified portion of damages to that individual’s vehicle and/or bodily injuries related to the collision. If found liable for more severe injuries or property damage, a driver may have financial responsibilities beyond no-fault PIP insurance coverage.