Car Insurance

How Much Car Insurance Do I Really Need in Florida?

no fault insurance| florida auto insurance
August 20, 2025•2 min read

Florida’s car insurance system is one of the most unique—and costly—in the country. With no-fault laws, minimum coverage requirements, and a high rate of uninsured drivers, many Fort Pierce residents wonder: “How much car insurance do I really need?”

This guide breaks down Florida’s minimum requirements, recommended coverage levels, and practical tips to ensure you’re properly protected on the road.

Florida’s Minimum Car Insurance Requirements

To legally drive in Florida, you must carry at least (FLHSMV):

  • $10,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Pays for medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault.

  • $10,000 Property Damage Liability (PDL): Covers damage to other people’s property.

Note: Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) is not required in Florida, but highly recommended.

Why the Minimum Isn’t Enough

While Florida’s minimum coverage keeps you legal, it may not keep you fully protected. Here’s why:

  • Medical Bills: Serious accidents can easily exceed $10,000.

  • Property Damage: Many vehicles cost more than $10,000 to repair or replace.

  • Uninsured Drivers: About 20% of Florida drivers are uninsured (Insurance Research Council).

Without additional coverage, you could be stuck paying out-of-pocket.

Recommended Coverage for Fort Pierce Drivers

  • Bodily Injury Liability (BIL): $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Matches your liability limits

  • Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs or replacement of your car in an accident

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against theft, storms, floods, or fire

  • Rental Reimbursement & Roadside Assistance: Helpful add-ons for daily drivers

Fort Pierce drivers especially benefit from comprehensive coverage due to hurricane and flood risks.

Cost Considerations

  • Minimum Coverage: Around $1,056/year in Florida

  • Full Coverage (recommended): Around $3,874/year (Bankrate)

  • Local Variations: Fort Pierce rates tend to run slightly higher than the state average due to coastal risk (RateRetriever).

FAQs

  • Is it legal to drive with just the minimum in Florida?
    Yes, but it’s risky—medical and property costs often exceed $10,000.

  • Do lenders require more coverage?
    Yes. If you lease or finance, full coverage is typically required.

  • What’s the most important optional coverage?
    Uninsured motorist protection—because of Florida’s high uninsured driver rate.

Conclusion & Call to Action

So, how much car insurance do you really need in Florida? At a minimum, you need $10,000 PIP and $10,000 PDL—but in reality, most Fort Pierce drivers need much more to stay safe. Adding liability, uninsured motorist, and full coverage ensures you won’t be left with huge bills after an accident.

Since 1975, State No-Fault Insurance has been helping Fort Pierce drivers find the right balance between affordability and protection.

📞 Call (772) 461-4477 today for a free same-day quote and personalized coverage review.


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