As auto accident attorneys representing crash victims here in Central Florida, we are very concerned about the number of uninsured motorists on our highways. According to the Insurance Research Council, in 2007 23% of all Florida motorists were uninsured. This is a full 10 points higher than the national average.
However, the Research Council is concerned about the current economic situation and how it will effect the number of uninsured motorists. Their research discovered there is a strong relationship between unemployment numbers and the number of uninsured. A one percent increase in the unemployment rate resulted in a three-quarters of a point increase in the number of uninsured.
For Florida, that correlation could mean many more motorists will become uninsured. The unemployment rate in Florida rose from 4.9% in November 2007 to 7.3% in 2008. Based on the Research Councils statistics, the increase in unemployed could raise the uninsured to 25%.
So how can you protect yourself? Check out the article titled “Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?” on our website to get an understanding of how uninsured motorist insurance protects you and your family.
