OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Moving to Florida comes with sunshine, palm trees – and a few insurance differences that might surprise you.
Whether you’re relocating from New York, California, or anywhere in between, understanding how insurance works in Florida is important, especially for first-time buyers. We spoke with Angie Lewis of Angie Lewis State Farm in Ocala to break down what you need to know to stay protected and compliant.
Auto Insurance: What is No-Fault, and Why Does it Matter?
Florida operates under a no-fault auto insurance system. According to Lewis, “This means your own insurance covers the first 80% of your medical expenses, up to $10,000, regardless of who caused the accident.” This coverage is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and is mandatory for all drivers, along with Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage, which also requires a minimum of $10,000.
“New residents often don’t realize that some insurance carriers quietly tack on a deductible – sometimes as high as $1,000 – to your PIP,” Lewis warns. “That’s something to keep an eye on when reviewing policies.”
Don’t Skip Bodily Injury Liability
Florida doesn’t legally require drivers to carry Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) coverage, but Lewis strongly advises against skipping it. “Think of BIL as your lawsuit protection,” she says. “If you’re at fault in an accident and someone else is injured, you could be financially responsible for their medical bills and lost wages. Without this coverage, you’re putting your assets at serious risk.”
Buying a Home in Ocala? Consider This First
Homeowners insurance isn’t legally required unless you have a mortgage, but Lewis says it’s still needed. “Look beyond just the structure. Think about your belongings, liability coverage, and local risks – like flooding or sinkholes.” A local agent who understands Ocala’s specific risks can help tailor the right policy for your needs.
Why Insurance Costs More in Florida
Florida’s insurance rates – especially for auto and home – are among the highest in the nation. “We see higher premiums because of the large number of uninsured drivers, the frequency of lawsuits, and our vulnerability to hurricanes,” says Lewis. Home insurance costs also rise due to the price of rebuilding in disaster-prone areas.
Common Surprises for New Residents
“Sticker shock is real,” says Lewis. Many newcomers are surprised by how expensive insurance can be here, especially auto coverage. Others have a hard time understanding Florida’s unique no-fault system or why it is so important to have hurricane and flood protections.
Protecting Your Home from Florida Weather
Standard homeowners’ policies usually do not cover flood damage. Lewis recommends looking into flood insurance and additional endorsements for risks like sinkholes and mold. “Ask your agent about where your home sits in relation to flood zones and what additional coverages make sense for your property.”
How to Save Without Cutting Corners
There are smart ways to reduce costs. “Bundling your home and auto policies, keeping a clean driving record, or installing a security system can all earn you discounts,” says Lewis. “Programs like State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save also reward good driving habits.”
Avoiding Gaps When Moving to Florida
Relocating from a state like New York or California? “You need to reassess your policies immediately,” Lewis advises. “Make sure you’re meeting Florida’s PIP and PDL requirements and work with a local agent to avoid coverage gaps that could leave you exposed.”
For more insurance guidance or to get a personalized quote, visit angielewis.com or call Angie Lewis State Farm in Ocala at 352.291.2444.