Do I have to pay my deductible if someone hits me in Florida?

Do I have to pay my deductible if someone hits me in Florida?

Generally, if you have a type of insurance coverage called "collision coverage" or "uninsured motorist property damage coverage" in Florida, you would be eligible for your insurance company to cover the damages caused by the other driver. This means that you would not have to pay your deductible out of pocket.

Collision coverage is an optional type of coverage that pays for the damages to your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault. If you have this coverage and you are involved in an accident caused by another driver, your insurance company will handle the repairs or replacement of your vehicle and waive your deductible.

On the other hand, uninsured motorist property damage coverage comes into play when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. This coverage allows your insurance company to pay for the damages to your vehicle, up to the policy limits. Again, in this situation, your deductible may be waived.

However, it's important to note that if you only have the minimum required insurance coverage in Florida, which is personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL), you may not have coverage for the damages caused by someone hitting you. PDL coverage only pays for damages caused to another person's vehicle or property, while PIP coverage only covers medical expenses and lost wages.

If you do not have collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage coverage and the other driver is at fault, you may have to pay your deductible. In this case, you would need to consider pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance policy. The at-fault driver's liability coverage should pay for both property damage and bodily injury caused by them.

It's important to remember that each insurance policy and claim may have its own specific terms, conditions, and deductibles. Therefore, it's always recommended to review your insurance policy and contact your insurance company to understand the exact details of your coverage, deductibles, and any potential changes in your premium.

In conclusion, whether or not you have to pay your deductible if someone hits you in Florida depends on the type of coverage you have. If you have collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage coverage, your insurance company may cover the damages caused by the other driver, waiving your deductible. However, if you only have the minimum required coverage, you may be responsible for paying your deductible or pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, you will not have to pay your deductible if someone else hits you in Florida. The at-fault driver's insurance should cover the damages and expenses, including your repair costs, without requiring you to pay a deductible.

If someone hits you in Florida, here are the steps you should follow: 1. Ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. 2. Contact the police to report the accident. 3. Gather information about the other driver, such as their name, contact details, and insurance information. 4. Take photos and gather evidence of the accident scene, including the damage to your vehicle. 5. Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with the necessary information. 6. Seek medical attention if needed. 7. Consult with an attorney if you have any legal concerns.

Yes, Florida has a "no-fault" insurance system. This means that regardless of who is at fault in an accident, each driver's own insurance company will cover their own medical expenses, regardless of fault. However, property damage claims are not covered by the "no-fault" system and can be pursued against the at-fault driver's insurance.

Yes, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance in Florida. If you are not at fault in an accident, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company for damages to your vehicle and any other related expenses. It is recommended to gather evidence and consult with your own insurance company or an attorney for guidance on the claims process.

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance in Florida, you may still have options for compensation. You can file a claim with your own insurance company, provided you have uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is designed to protect you in such situations. Additionally, you may also consider taking legal action against the at-fault driver to recover damages.