Accident in Someone Else’s Car: Are You Covered?
Florida has some pretty unique insurance coverage laws. Most states across the country do not have the same “no fault” system as the sunshine state.
Although there are a lot of benefits to this type of coverage, there are a few drawbacks as well. One of those benefits is coverage for driving other people’s cars.
If you were involved in an accident, an experienced car accident lawyer will be able to tell you the specifics of your coverage by working with your insurance company.
Beyond Your PIP Coverage
Your personal injury protection (“PIP”) coverage will include your medical expenses, lost wages, and death benefits in an accident up to a certain limit.
It extends coverage to you, anyone who lives in your home, and some passengers who do not own a vehicle themselves. It also covers those who drive your car, assuming they have your permission.
PIP coverages even extend to pedestrians and bicyclists as well (as long as they are Florida residents).
Property Damage Liability Insurance
Property damage liability insurance is the coverage that might be in effect if you are driving someone else’s vehicle. Technically, this is not a part of PIP coverage, but it is also required under Florida law.
Having this coverage allows you to drive any car you would like and still have coverage. Since this applies to you, it also applies to friends and family that you allow drive your car.
In addition, you might even have additional PIP coverage if you are driving a vehicle that belongs to someone in your household or you are driving someone else’s car with his or her permission.
Bodily Injury Coverage: Bodily injury coverage is not required in Florida for most residents. This coverage extends to injuries and death for others involved in the accident when the driver is at fault or partially at fault for the accident.
Again, this extends to situations where you are driving someone else’s car. In fact, it even covers your relatives that live with you, even if they are driving someone else’s car as well.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This type of coverage protects you against those who may not have liability insurance, also covering your passengers and family members.
It applies whether you are in your own car or if you are riding in someone else’s car. UMI even provides coverage if you are hit as a pedestrian as well.
Find more information about Florida insurance, including tips and tricks on finding the right policy.
Coverage Outside of Florida
If you travel outside of Florida, you are still covered under your PIP coverage. However, you must stay within the United States or Canada.
It will also still cover your relatives who live in your home. Be careful though, if you are not driving your own vehicle outside of Florida as you aren’t covered by PIP.
Other states may not be as lenient towards allowing coverage if you are driving someone else’s car. Each state is slightly different, so if you have an out-of-state friend or relative ask you this question, you may need to refer them to an insurance agent or attorney in their state. Generally, liability insurance will follow the driver, not the car, but this may not always be the case.
Learn more about potential damages after an auto accident.
Getting Legal Help from a Car Accident Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Although Florida’s insurance laws are generally friendly, they can be extremely confusing as well. Be sure to read your policy carefully to determine the kind of coverage you carry. Knowing your coverage before a crash happens will definitely help your chances of faster insurance payouts.
Find out more by talking to an experienced car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach.
