Sunshine State News
February 28, 2018 – 12:15pm
Michael Carlson
Florida’s Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law, commonly known as “PIP,” is under attack in the Florida Legislature. The outcome — if trial lawyers succeed — will be increased insurance rates in 60 of 67 counties in Florida. They are trying to repeal PIP in favor of a lawsuit-based system and mandatory “bodily injury” insurance, which reduces consumer choices.
PIP repeal bills filed in the House and Senate require motorists to purchase more insurance coverage. Instead of buying $10,000 in PIP coverage, you must buy $25,000 of bodily injury coverage under the House bill, and $30,000 of coverage under the Senate bill.
The Senate bill imposes a second cost on consumers by mandating “medical payments” coverage, effectively taxing those who otherwise have health insurance. For example, if you have an employer-provided medical plan or other health insurance, you will still be required to buy medical payments coverage. This government mandate reduces your choice of what kind of insurance to buy.
We hope the Legislature doesn’t pass a bill that is bad for Floridians because an influential special interest group is seeking changes that will line their own pockets. We urge policymakers not to accept a bad PIP repeal.
Michael Carlson is a lawyer and lobbyist. He is the president of the Personal Insurance Federation of Florida, a property and casualty trade association based in Tallahassee.
