Florida Legislature Takes First Step in Proposed No-Fault Car Insurance Law Repeal

With the nation’s third-highest car insurance rates, Florida has once again begun an attempt to repeal its Personal Injury Protection (PIP) statutes. Representative Erin Grall’s proposed House Bill 771 would remove liability limitations under the current PIP statutes, making at-fault drivers fully liable for the accidents and damages they cause.

HB 771, along with its Senate companion bill, Senate Bill 378, would also set bodily injury liability coverage minimums at $25,000 for the death or injury of one person, $50,000 for the injury or death of two or more people, and $10,000 for property damage. Furthermore, HB 771 requires insurers to offer drivers $10,000 in medical coverage which insureds can opt out of. SB 378 sets the same minimum medical coverage; however, insureds must opt-in under the Senate’s plan.

The bills proposed by the Florida legislature come in an attempt to lower the state’s automobile insurance costs but are opposed by certain groups including insurers, hospitals, and doctors who fear that the change will result in more uninsured drivers and higher health insurance premiums.

For any questions regarding the proposed bills HB 771 and SB 378, or any updates on their progress through the Florida legislature, please contact Westmont Associates, Inc.