Orlando car accident lawyers will be busy counseling clients about the effects of the new bill reinstating Florida’s no-fault auto insurance system. In essence, the new law will not take full effect until January 1, 2008. That means that there will be a three-month lapse in requiring motorists to carry personal injury protection coverage. During this period, lawmakers have shared their view that Florida’s no-fault law will continue to apply only when all drivers in an accident have PIP coverage. Of course, this will likely be subject of court interpretation.
For now, several in Tallahassee are urging people to contact their insurance companies or agents to make sure they have enough coverage. Obviously, every one should carry adequate insurance to protect themselves and their families. At the very least, for those without health insurance, it is worthwhile to carry or keep PIP coverage, even if it is not required until Jan. 1. Motorists would be wise to also carry “bodily injury” coverage, which protects them if they get sued for causing an accident; as well as, “uninsured motorist” coverage that helps pay their bills and damages if another driver causes an accident and doesn’t have insurance.
Certainly, the legislature should have acted timely if it was to continue Florida’s no fault laws. Due to their delay, consumers involved in car accidents will face a changing legal landscape.