Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest share of uninsured drivers. Industry estimates put it at roughly one in five. Many insured drivers carry only the state minimum, which includes no bodily injury coverage. If one of them hits you, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) coverage may be the only thing paying for your injuries.
What does UM coverage pay for?
If a driver who is at fault has no insurance, or not enough, UM helps pay for:
- Medical bills beyond what your PIP covers
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering, in qualifying cases
It also generally applies in hit-and-run accidents, which are common on busy Orlando corridors like Semoran Boulevard (SR 436), Colonial Drive, and I-4.
Does it cover me outside my car?
In many cases, yes. UM can protect you and your household members as pedestrians or cyclists. That matters if you ride the Cross Seminole Trail through Oviedo or the Cady Way Trail into Winter Park, where trails cross busy roads.
Stacked or non-stacked?
- Stacked UM multiplies your UM limit by the number of vehicles on your policy, giving you more coverage for a higher premium.
- Non-stacked UM costs less but limits you to the coverage on the vehicle involved, and some protections away from your own car can be more limited.
Can I decline it?
Yes, but Florida requires you to reject UM in writing. If you signed a rejection form years ago to save a few dollars, it’s worth reviewing now. Medical costs have gone up, and one hospital visit after a serious accident can cost more than years of UM premiums.
How much should I carry?
A common rule of thumb is to match your UM limits to your Bodily Injury Liability limits. That way you’re protected as well as you protect everyone else on the road.
Not sure whether you have UM, or whether you signed it away? We can review your auto policy and show you what adding or increasing it would cost.
This article is for general educational purposes only. Coverage, eligibility, discounts and pricing vary by carrier and policy. Talk with a licensed Florida insurance agent about your specific situation.
Is Florida's Minimum Car Insurance Enough for Driving in Orlando?
Do I Need Flood Insurance in Oviedo If I'm Not in a Flood Zone?
