Average Car Insurance Cost in Florida: What You Need to Know

When it comes to car insurance, we all want to make sure we’re getting the best coverage at the most affordable price. However, with so many factors to consider – including your age, driving record, and type of car – it can be difficult to know what you should expect to pay. In this article, we’ll explore the average car insurance cost in Florida, as well as what factors can impact your premiums.

Florida Car Insurance Requirements

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of car insurance costs, let’s first review the basic requirements for drivers in Florida. According to state law, all drivers must carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) coverage.

PIP coverage pays for medical expenses and lost income in the event that you or your passengers are injured in a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. PDL coverage, on the other hand, pays for damage you cause to someone else’s property while driving.

It’s worth noting that these are just the minimum requirements – many drivers opt for additional coverage to protect themselves in the event of a more serious accident.

Factors That Can Impact Your Car Insurance Costs

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into what factors can impact your car insurance costs in Florida.

Your Age and Driving Experience

It’s no secret that younger drivers and those with less experience on the road are often charged higher premiums. This is because they are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. If you’re a driver under the age of 25, you can expect to pay more for car insurance than an older driver with a clean driving record.

Your Driving Record

Your driving record is one of the biggest factors that can impact your car insurance costs. If you’ve been involved in accidents or received multiple traffic tickets, you can expect to pay more for coverage. On the other hand, if you have a clean driving record and haven’t filed any claims, you may be eligible for lower premiums.

Your Car’s Make and Model

The type of car you drive can also impact your insurance costs. Generally speaking, newer and more expensive cars will cost more to insure than older, less expensive models. Additionally, cars with high safety ratings may be eligible for lower premiums.

Where You Live in Florida

Believe it or not, your zip code can also impact your car insurance costs. If you live in an area with a high rate of accidents or thefts, you can expect to pay more for coverage. Rural areas, on the other hand, may have lower premiums.

Your Credit Score

Finally, your credit score can also play a role in your car insurance costs. Drivers with lower credit scores may be charged higher premiums, as they are considered to be higher-risk customers.

The Average Car Insurance Cost in Florida

So, what can you expect to pay for car insurance in Florida? According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average annual premium for car insurance in Florida in 2018 was $1,364.

Of course, this is just an average – your actual costs will depend on a number of factors, including those we discussed above. To get a more accurate estimate, you’ll need to request quotes from several insurance companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question
Answer
Do I have to have car insurance in Florida?
Yes, Florida law requires all drivers to carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) coverage.
What types of additional coverage are available?
Additional coverage options include collision coverage, which pays for damages to your own car in the event of an accident, and comprehensive coverage, which covers non-collision-related incidents like theft or natural disasters.
Does my credit score really affect my car insurance costs?
Yes, many insurance companies use credit scores as a factor in determining premiums. Drivers with lower credit scores may be charged higher rates.
How can I lower my car insurance costs?
There are several ways to potentially lower your car insurance costs, including maintaining a clean driving record, opting for a higher deductible, and bundling your car insurance with other types of coverage like homeowners insurance.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – everything you need to know about the average car insurance costs in Florida. While there are many factors that can impact your premiums, it’s important to remember that insurance is there to protect you in the event of an accident or other incident. By understanding the requirements and options available to you, you can make a more informed decision when it comes to choosing car insurance coverage that fits your needs and budget.