Why Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance May Be the Most Important Coverage on Your Policy And What You Need to Know About “Stacking” vs. “Non-Stacking” in Florida
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
You’re heading home after a long day — maybe picking up dinner, maybe thinking about the next morning’s carpool. Then, in an instant, another driver runs a red light and crashes into your car. You’re hurt, your car is totaled, and the bills are piling up.
But it gets worse: the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance. And your policy? It doesn’t include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage.
It’s a nightmare scenario — and one that happens far too often in Florida, where nearly 1 in 5 drivers are uninsured. Without UM coverage, a single accident could leave you dealing with pain, stress, and financial fallout… even when the crash wasn’t your fault.
What is UM Insurance and Why Does It Matter?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance protects you when the other driver can’t. This includes two major scenarios:
– The at-fault driver has no insurance at all
– The at-fault driver doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your damages (known as underinsured)
In Florida, your standard Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses, regardless of who is at fault. But in a serious accident — surgeries, rehab, lost wages, pain and suffering — $10,000 is just the beginning. Without UM coverage, you may be stuck covering the rest out of pocket.
UM steps in when you need it most. It can help cover:
– Medical bills beyond your PIP limit
– Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
– Long-term rehab and care needs
– Pain and suffering
– Funeral expenses in fatal accidents
UM insurance is not required in Florida, but skipping it is a risk no Tampa driver should take.
The Staggering Reality in Florida
– Florida is #6 in the nation for uninsured drivers
– An estimated 20% of Florida drivers are on the road without any insurance
– Many more carry only the minimum required coverage, which won’t be enough if you’re seriously hurt
What’s the Difference Between Stacking and Non-Stacking?
When choosing UM coverage in Florida, you’ll likely be asked to choose between stacked or non-stacked coverage. The difference can be dramatic — and understanding it could mean tens of thousands of dollars in extra protection.
Stacked UM Coverage
Stacked coverage allows you to combine (or “stack”) the UM coverage limits from multiple vehicles listed on your policy.
For example:
If you own two vehicles, each with $50,000 in UM coverage:
– With stacking, you now have $100,000 in UM coverage per accident
Benefits of stacking:
– More protection if you’re hit by an uninsured driver
– Coverage often follows you (even if you’re a passenger or pedestrian)
– Especially valuable if you own multiple vehicles or have a family policy
Non-Stacked UM Coverage
Non-stacked UM coverage applies only to the specific vehicle listed in the policy.
– If you’re injured in a vehicle not listed or while walking or biking, your UM may not apply
– Your coverage limit remains fixed per vehicle, no combining allowed
Bottom line:
Stacked UM may cost a little more in premiums — but offers significantly more protection, especially in a state with so many uninsured drivers.
Real-World Example: Stacked vs. Non-Stacked in Action
Case 1 – Non-Stacked:
A driver has $100,000 non-stacked UM coverage is by an uninsured motorist while walking. Because the incident didn’t involve their insured car, the coverage may not apply.
Case 2 – Stacked:
A household has two vehicles, each with $100,000 stacked UM coverage, benefits from $200,000 in protection when one of the insured individuals is hit while biking – even though no car was involved.
Have You Already Been Hurt by an Uninsured Driver? We Can Help.
Call the Florida Accident Attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz for a free consultation at (813) 437-5523
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in the Tampa Bay area, the experienced attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz are ready to help. Our firm understands the emotional, physical, and financial toll these incidents take on victims and families. That’s why we fight aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation our clients deserve.
We know the law, we know the system, and we know how to get results — especially when the person who hurt you tries to disappear. Whether you’re dealing with unanswered questions, denied insurance claims, or severe injuries, Darrigo & Diaz will be by your side every step of the way.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, contact us immediately through our secured contact form. Or call our office at (813) 437-5523 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and connect with an experienced and knowledgeable accident lawyer.
