Does your auto insurance policy cover everything you think it does?
by Jason W. Peterson, Shareholder and Personal Injury Lawyer
I often hear my clients say that they have “full” automobile insurance coverage. Yet, when I review their policy, they are surprised to learn that they have very minimal coverage. Many people are unaware that Florida drivers only need two basic coverages to legally operate a vehicle in Florida:
1. $10,000 in property damage coverage
2. $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (“No-Fault”) coverage.
Neither of these coverages provide insurance to pay for a negligent driver’s liability to you for physical injuries. Bodily Injury insurance coverage provides that protection, but Florida drivers are not required to carry it. Minimum legal coverage is not “full” coverage!
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is the most important coverage to have on your policy. UM coverage pays for your damages when the careless driver has inadequate insurance to cover your losses. It is one important way to protect yourself and your family.
If you have any questions about the automobile insurance coverage that you have (or don’t have), please call me. I will review your policy at no cost to you. Do not wait until it is too late. Protect yourself today!
I meet with many clients injured in car accidents due to the carelessness of other drivers. Often, the driver that caused the accident has no insurance or other ability to pay for my client’s medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering. Sometimes, the only option is to turn to my clients’ insurance policy to see if Uninsured Motorist coverage was purchased. And – all too often – my clients unfortunately learn that they didn’t buy it. They didn’t know they needed it – and now it is too late.
With over 20 years of legal experience, Jason W. Peterson has tried numerous cases to verdict, including personal injury, wrongful death and catastrophic property damage cases. He has resolved hundreds of personal injury claims on behalf of injury victims with combined settlement values exceeding millions of dollars. His experience having represented both plaintiffs and defendants provides his clients the best perspective to evaluate claims and implement a winning strategy. Jason has also guided owners of residential and commercial properties through the complex web of property insurance. He has resolved claims resulting from Hurricanes Ivan, Dennis, Michael and Sally, as well as catastrophic tornadoes and flooding that have impacted the Northwest Florida region. Click HERE to watch Jason’s video series on how to tackle complex insurance claims. Contact Jason at (850) 436-6469 or at jpeterson@clarkpartington.com.
About Clark Partington:
Clark Partington is the largest business focused firm in the Florida panhandle with offices in Pensacola, Destin, Grayton Beach & Tallahassee. The firm also maintains a presence in South Alabama with an Orange Beach office. Since 1976 Clark Partington has grown to over forty lawyers and has served the people and businesses of Florida through an innovative and collaborative approach to practicing law. Our lawyers are consistently recognized for their service to the profession and excellence in the courtroom. More information about the firm’s practice, its attorneys, and recognitions may be found at www.clarkpartington.com.
