Many people are feeling crunched for money these days, but it is never a good idea to try to save money by driving without insurance. There are penalties for driving without auto insurance in Florida, including immediate suspension of your license plates, registration, and driver’s license. If you want to get them back, there is a reinstatement fee of $150 to $500, depending on how many offenses you have. The fine goes up the more offenses you have, and the state may monitor your insurance coverage.
Florida is unique in that it has a low level of requirements for insurance. The only requirements are $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). Even with these low requirements, about 20% of drivers in Florida do not have any coverage at all. It’s a driver’s worst nightmare to get into an accident with someone without insurance.
How Uninsured Drivers are Caught in FL
Don’t think that you will only be caught without auto insurance if you get pulled over or in an accident. Florida uses the Financial Responsibility Compliance Verification Program. Through this, insurance coverage is monitored through real-time data from insurance companies. When a policy is not renewed, canceled, or lapses, the vehicle is flagged, and the suspension process is initiated. There is no grace period for not having coverage.
Causing an Accident Without Insurance in Florida
Things can get ugly fast if you cause an accident without insurance. You will be financially responsible for your own medical bills and any property damage you cause. Plus, your future insurance rates will rise significantly. Florida can seize assets and garnish wages to make payments.
Don’t take the risk and drive without insurance. Talk to our team at Morgan Insurance Services, serving Tampa, FL, about your auto insurance needs today. We can help you understand your options and find a policy that fits your needs and budget.
