In 2011, the average annual car insurance premium for Florida is $1,712, which is substantially higher than the national average of $1,440.

Annual Changes

In Florida, premiums rose 2% between 2010 and 2011, after experiencing no change whatsoever between 2009 and 2010. The state does not in any way determine insurance rates in Florida, and each auto insurer is free to determine rates according to its own formulas. There is no clear indication as to whether rates will rise or fall in the near future, so that checking this site for trends as well as using it to obtain multiple quotes is highly recommended in order to find the best possible insurance rates.

Seasonal Changes

While prices remained within the same basic level during the entirety of 2010, there were some observable patterns in which rates rose in the winter and spring, fell in the summer, and fluctuated within a defined range again in the fall before reaching a stable level in the winter. Such volatility points out how monitoring prices and obtaining new quotes can help motorists find the best rates.

Insurance Requirements

Florida is a no-fault state where insurance regulations require property damage insurance and personal injury protection coverage. The mandatory minimum for both types of coverage in Florida is $10,000. Bodily liability coverage is not mandatory but is highly recommended; there is no set minimum except in cases where coverage must be purchased after a first accident. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is available in Florida and is highly recommended. Regardless of the no-fault law in Florida, additional insurance provides coverage when standard no-fault limits are reached or in the case of a permitted lawsuit that results in a judgment against the covered driver.

Advice for Getting the Best Deals

Florida auto insurers include both national and regional firms. It is impossible to predict which insurer offers the best rates as each insurer has its own criteria for determining the rates that apply to particular drivers and cars. Obtaining multiple quotes from reliable insurance companies that are rated A or higher by A. M. Best is highly recommended, and the J. D. Power consumer satisfaction ratings for each company should also be considered.

Florida drivers are advised to obtain the best possible rates by using this site to monitor prices and to obtain periodic multiple quotes from competing insurers.