Florida Insurance Blog

Auto Accidents: Your Responsibility Vs. The Insurance Company

When auto accidents occur in and around the Tampa, FL area, understanding the division of responsibilities between drivers and insurance companies is critical. As a driver, it is crucial to be aware of your obligations in the event of an accident while also understanding the role of your insurance company. 

Driver Responsibilities 

You have specific responsibilities to fulfill as a driver involved in an accident:

  1. Safety and Assistance: Check for injuries and provide necessary assistance. If required, call emergency services.
  2. Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other parties, including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information. 
  3. Document the Accident: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any relevant road conditions. 
  4. Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company promptly about the accident, providing accurate details. 

Insurance Company Responsibilities 

Insurance companies also have vital roles to play after an auto accident:

  1. Claims Investigation: Insurance companies initiate an investigation to determine the cause and extent of the damage. This investigation may involve assessing the accident scene, speaking with involved parties and witnesses, and reviewing evidence.
  2. Coverage Determination: Insurance companies review the policy to determine the extent of the coverage applicable. Factors such as liability, deductibles, and policy limits are considered during this process.
  3. Claims Handling: Insurance companies handle the processing and settlement of claims. They work with all parties involved to assess damages, negotiate settlements, and arrange repairs or compensation as per the policy terms.
  4. Legal Assistance: When legal action arises from an accident, insurance companies may provide legal representation or work with external legal experts to protect their policyholders’ interests.

How Morgan Insurance Services Can Help You

At Morgan Insurance Services, we can answer all your questions concerning auto insurance coverage. We assist the Tampa, FL region. Contact us today

What Does It Mean If an Auto Insurance Policy Has a Restricted Driver Listed?

Morgan Insurance Services, serving the greater Tampa, FL area, is pleased to offer many insurance products, including auto insurance. One of the questions people often have about an existing insurance policy or one they are considering purchasing is what it means if the auto insurance policy has a restricted driver listed on it.

What Does It Mean If an Auto Insurance Policy Has a Restricted Driver Listed? 

If an auto insurance policy has a restricted driver listed, it means that the auto insurance policy does not cover that driver. If the individual is operating your vehicle, they need their insurance policy. If they do not have their insurance policy and are involved in an accident, the car’s owner will be liable for the damages. 

Why Would an Auto Insurance Policy Have a Restricted Driver? 

It is common for an auto insurance company to see a list of licensed drivers living at one address. Suppose one driver has a suspended license, a restricted license, or a bad driving record. In that case, the insurance company may give you the option of listing that individual as a restricted driver or charging you quite a bit more to cover them on your policy. If they do not operate your vehicle, listing them as a restricted driver may be your best option for finding affordable insurance. 

It is recommended that you shop around for a new auto insurance policy annually. As you shop around, you should compare policies and prices. This is one of the best ways to find the right policy for your needs at a fair price. Morgan Insurance Services, serving the greater Tampa, FL region, would love to help if you are in the market for a new policy. Call us today to get started. 

Required Auto Insurance in Florida

Florida, like other states, mandates that every vehicle in Florida must be covered by an auto insurance policy that meets or exceeds the minimum required amounts set forth by the state. If you don’t have coverage on your vehicle, you need auto insurance in order to drive legally. For more information about auto insurance, call us now at Morgan Insurance Services in Tampa, FL.

Personal Injury Protection

Before you can register your vehicle in Florida, there must be two types of insurance on it. One of these is personal injury protection, as Florida is a no-fault state. This kind of coverage provides money for needed medical expenses that result from the accident. And, it doesn’t matter who caused the accident. Whether you caused it or not, your personal injury protection coverage will pay 80% of your medical bills up to their maximum payout. However, it is a low amount that is required. It’s generally recommended that you get a higher amount of coverage in case of a serious accident. 

Property Damage Liability

If you were to be in an accident that you caused, you may be liable for the repair bills to the other vehicle. Paying for this alone can be difficult, especially if the other vehicle was an expensive one. With your property damage liability, these bills get paid up until their payout maximum. As with personal injury protection, it’s a good idea to get a higher amount of property damage liability coverage than is required. 

Get Auto Insurance Now

If you don’t have at least the minimum auto insurance required by the state, you are in danger of a number of fines and fees. To get an auto policy of your own, give us a call right away at Morgan Insurance Services in Tampa, FL to find out more. 

Adjusting the specifics of your auto insurance policy

An auto insurance policy contains a number of specific types of coverage in case of losses or accidents. You can speak to an agent at Morgan Insurance Services to learn more about what types of additional coverage will work best for you.

Liability

Policies have liability for a certain monetary amount, and this type of coverage is required in each state. This is meant to protect the policyholder and others if there is a lawsuit or other financial losses that must be covered. It is required by law because the government has an interest in protecting its citizens and property. Purchasing a greater amount of liability coverage means that you will have the insurance company pay out greater amounts on your behalf after an accident so that you do not have to pay out of pocket. 

Deductibles for collisions

Depending on the deductible amount, paying out of pocket for repairs can be a huge expense after an accident. This is why it is advisable for some drivers to adjust their deductible for a lower amount and pay directly into the policy. This is especially true for newer or more expensive cars that may cost more to repair. If a car is older, there is also the option of taking collision insurance off of the policy completely for the savings. 

Uninsured persons, third parties, and other protections

Most insurance companies will also offer additional coverage for accidents involving those without insurance, or others who may be affected. These can be added or removed as necessary.

Get help changing a policy today

To learn more about changing the specifics of your policy, contact an agent at Morgan Insurance Services. They will provide more specific information about changing or updating a policy.