Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers | May 1, 2025 | Personal Injury
Understanding the differences between collision insurance and comprehensive coverage is important for drivers who want to protect themselves in the event of an accident. Both types of coverage are optional under Florida law, but they can play a critical role in helping you repair or replace your vehicle after an accident.
What Is Collision Insurance in Florida?
Collision insurance helps pay for damage to your vehicle after a crash, regardless of who was at fault. This coverage typically applies whether you collide with another vehicle, hit a stationary object, or are involved in a single-car accident. Some examples of when collision coverage might apply include:
- You hit another vehicle at an intersection.
- Your car slides on a wet road and hits a guardrail.
- Someone crashes into your parked car and doesn’t leave a note.
You may be required to carry collision coverage if you finance or lease your vehicle. You could be left paying out-of-pocket for costly repairs or even a total loss without it.
What Is Comprehensive Coverage in Florida?
Comprehensive coverage pays for vehicle damage caused by events other than a collision. These are typically incidents outside your control, such as weather-related damage, theft, or vandalism. Some examples of when comprehensive insurance might apply include:
- Your car is damaged in a hurricane or flood.
- A tree branch falls on your parked vehicle.
- Your vehicle is stolen or broken into.
- You hit an animal while driving.
Comprehensive coverage is optional under Florida law, but may be required by lenders or leasing companies along with collision insurance.
Does Florida Law Require Collision or Comprehensive Insurance?
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. However, collision and comprehensive coverage are not required. Many drivers still purchase these coverages to protect their vehicles in the event of an accident and to avoid major repair expenses. You may consider dropping these optional coverages if your vehicle is older or has a low market value, but they can provide peace of mind and financial protection for newer or high-value vehicles.
How These Coverages Relate to Personal Injury Claims in Florida
Collision and comprehensive insurance do not pay for medical bills or injuries after an accident. This is generally what Personal Injury Protection (PIP), bodily injury liability, or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverages are for.
However, Collision and comprehensive insurance can be vital in car accident claims where fault is disputed or the other driver is uninsured. Your collision coverage can step in to cover vehicle repairs if you are involved in an accident and the other driver lacks insurance or delays in paying for your damages. You may still pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Talk to a Clearwater Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident
Collision and comprehensive coverage help protect your vehicle in the event of an accident, but they may not address the full range of your accident-related damages. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence, speaking with an experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. A lawyer can help:
- Investigate your accident
- Determine liability and identify negligent parties
- Help you file collision and comprehensive insurance claims
- Pursue compensation for your injuries and losses
Do not navigate the process alone if you are dealing with injuries and insurance issues after a crash. Contact an experienced Clearwater personal injury lawyer for a free consultation.
Injured in a Car Accident? Reach out to us
Collision and comprehensive coverage are not required under Florida law, but they can offer valuable protection for your vehicle in the event of an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident or suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, schedule a free consultation with a Clearwater personal injury lawyer to help protect your rights.
Contact the New Port Richey Car Accident Law Firm of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer in New Port Richey. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500