What’s the Minimum Car Insurance Required in Florida?

Introduction

If you drive in Florida, you are legally required to carry auto insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage standards. Florida has unique insurance laws, including its no-fault insurance system, which affects how claims are handled.Failing to carry the right coverage can result in license suspension, fines, and financial liability in case of an accident.

This guide will explain:

• Florida’s minimum car insurance requirements
• What is covered (and what’s not)
• How White Chip Insurance can help you find affordable coverage that meets legal requirements

Florida’s Minimum Car Insurance Requirements

All Florida drivers must carry at least:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $10,000
• Property Damage Liability (PDL): $10,000

Unlike many other states, Florida does not require Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) for most drivers. However, if you are at fault in an accident, you could still be held financially responsible for injuries beyond your policy’s limits.

What Does Florida’s Minimum Insurance Cover?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - $10,000

PIP is mandatory in Florida because it is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance pays for medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident.

PIP covers:

• 80% of medical bills (up to $10,000) for injuries from an accident
• 60% of lost wages if injuries prevent you from working
• $5,000 in death benefits for fatal accidents

Important: If your injuries are not considered an emergency, PIP benefits may be capped at $2,500 instead of the full $10,000.

Property Damage Liability (PDL) - $10,000

PDL pays for damage to other people’s property if you are at fault in an accident. This includes:

• Damage to another person’s vehicle
• Damage to buildings, fences, or street signs

PDL does not cover damage to your own car—you’ll need collision coverage for that.

What’s NOT Covered by Florida’s Minimum Insurance?

The state-minimum insurance does NOT cover:

• Your vehicle’s repairs if you’re at fault (collision coverage is needed)
• Medical expenses beyond PIP limits
• Injuries to others if you’re at fault (Bodily Injury Liability is recommended)
• Damage caused by uninsured drivers (Uninsured Motorist Coverage is optional but highly recommended)

Why You May Need More Than Minimum Coverage

While Florida’s minimum insurance keeps you legal, it may not fully protect you financially in the event of a serious accident.

Example: What Happens in a Major Accident?

• You cause an accident, and the other driver’s medical bills total $50,000.
• Your PIP only covers $10,000 for your medical expenses, and you have no Bodily Injury Liability to cover the other driver.
• You could be personally sued for the remaining medical costs and lost wages.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Florida

If you fail to maintain the state’s minimum required coverage, you could face:

• License and Registration Suspension: Until proof of insurance is provided
• Reinstatement Fees: $150 for a first offense, up to $500 for repeat offenses
• Higher Insurance Rates: A lapse in coverage makes you a higher-risk driver

How to Get the Best Car Insurance Rates in Florida

Compare Multiple Quotes

• Insurance rates vary significantly by company. White Chip Insurance’s free online tool allows you to compare multiple insurers in minutes.

Ask About Discounts

Many drivers miss out on savings because they don’t ask about available discounts, such as:

• Good driver discount (for no accidents in 3-5 years)
• Multi-policy discount (bundling auto + home insurance)
• Safe vehicle discount (cars with advanced safety features)

Consider Raising Your Deductible

• Increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can lower your premium significantly.

Drive Safely to Avoid Rate Increases

• Speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUI convictions raise premiums by 20-100%

Final Thoughts

Understanding Florida’s minimum car insurance requirements is essential for staying legal and financially protected. While PIP and PDL keep you compliant, additional coverage like Bodily Injury Liability, Collision, and Uninsured Motorist Protection can help you avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses.

Next Steps:

• Use White Chip Insurance’s free online tool to compare rates and find affordable coverage.
• Speak with an expert agent to determine whether you need more than just minimum insurance.
• Apply available discounts to lower your premium.