Many states have put in place no fault insurance laws regarding vehicle operation on their highways. Florida’s No Fault Insurance Law was put in place to limit the number of law suits heard each year between Florida accident victims. Many states no fault insurance laws differ, for example, in Florida, you are required to carry both PIP and PDL.

PIP stands for Personal injury protection. And if you reside in the state of Florida for at least 90 days per year, you are required to have at least a minimum of $10,000 coverage for personal injury. PIP insurance covers medical expenses for you while you are in your vehicle, as well as, in other’s vehicles. As well, PIP insurance will cover those that live in your household, passengers in your vehicle that are not covered by PIP insurance of their own, and even a person driving your vehicle with your permission. PIP will also cover your children while riding school buses in the state of Florida. Your personal injury insurance is required to pay for your medical expenses up to the amount termed in your policy regardless of fault.

PDL is a term used to refer to property damage liability. PDL is required by the state of Florida for all residents, including part-time residents that spend at least 90 days in the state. These days do not have to be consecutive; therefore, many of Florida’s seasonal residents are required to have this insurance. Florida requires their motorists to carry at least $10,000 minimal PDL coverage. PDL insurance covers property damaged that is done by you or other named individuals on the policy; the amount is paid up to the coverage terms listed in your policy. In the state of Florida, property damage may include another vehicle, fences, road signs, and even buildings. Depending upon the terms of your policy, those named on it will be covered under PDL; however, if you are in the habit of letting other’s drive your vehicle that are not listed on your policy- you will need to check with your policy holder for coverage. PDL insurance will cover other’s property when you are at fault; it will not cover your property if you are at fault- only collision insurance will do that. This type of insurance is not required by the state of Florida.

Many Florida residents will also be required to carry bodily injury insurance. High risk drivers that generally have been involved in previous accidents are usually required to have this type of insurance in addition to PDL and PIP. If you owe for a vehicle, most lenders will require you to carry other insurances, as well. These might include collision, comprehensive, and uninsured or underinsured bodily damage.

Most insurance companies located in Florida do offer residents minimal coverage that is required by state law. However, it is important to read the terms and policy conditions that are being purchased. As well, you need to be aware of the different types of insurance available for your needs and perhaps consider additional insurance coverage.