Florida Has Above-Average Risks For Auto Accident Fatalities
One trusted source ranks Florida the 17th most dangerous state to drive in. That may not sound that bad, but realize that it means Florida is more dangerous than two-thirds of the other states. This ranking is based on 16 fatalities per 100,000 drivers in 2018, but our state also has 1.44 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, which is well above the national average of 1.16.
In raw numbers, Florida is even more dangerous. Only California and Texas have more total fatalities per year. And similar rankings in regard to non-fatal auto accidents apply to Florida in both raw numbers and rates. Anyone who has driven on busy Floridian highways and city streets knows firsthand how challenging the traffic can be – and the stats back up what we all know already by direct experience.
There are several key factors that tend to make The Sunshine State relatively more risky for road travelers. First of all, it has a large population and heavy urbanization. Second, the large number of retirees who often drive slower and younger people who want to drive fast creates a sometimes tense “traffic mix.” Third, the influx of large numbers of tourists jams roadways full to the brink and means that many drivers are not familiar with routes they may be traveling for the very first time.
How Can I Add Extra Car Insurance Protection?
Beyond just the $10,000 each of PIP (personal injury protection) and PDL (property damage liability) that is required by state law, there are several other components you can add to your auto insurance.
Medical payments protection provides you with additional cover should you or a passenger of yours get injured in a crash. You could also go beyond $10,000 for your PIP and for your PDL. Collision coverage protects your vehicle in the event of a collision accident, whereas PDL only pays for damage you do to the other driver’s vehicle.
Comprehensive coverage may be required by your lender if you don’t yet own your car free and clear. But it’s a good idea anyway, especially for vehicles of high value. Comprehensive still has some exclusions, but it will take care of full repairs or replacement in the vast majority of situations.
Finally, the large number of uninsured drivers roaming Florida’s highway system makes it imperative to add uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy. The very slight increase in premium this type of insurance involves is nothing compared to the risk of being left holding the bag after a collision with an un- or under- insured motorist.
For assistance from an experienced auto insurance agent in customizing your policy, contact Flagler County Insurance Agency today! We can maximally protect you against the risks of driving in a high-risk state like Florida.