Florida Commercial Auto Insurance Requirements: What You Need to Know

Whether your Florida business relies on a fleet of delivery trucks or just one work van, it’s crucial to comply with commercial auto insurance requirements that are specific to the Sunshine State. As liability risks steadily increase and insurance costs continue to rise, it is pertinent to understand your insurance options and obligations in 2025. Reviewing current Florida commercial auto insurance requirements can make all the difference.

Florida Commercial Auto Insurance Basics

The state of Florida requires all commercial vehicles to meet specific minimum liability coverage limits. Depending on the type of vehicle and the business it supports, these requirements may vary.

Minimum coverage requirements in Florida include the following:

• $10,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP). This type of insurance is absolutely mandatory for all vehicles that are registered in Florida.
• $10,000 Property Damage Liability (PDL). This is the minimum property damage liability insurance required for all vehicle owners in the state.

Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) insurance is not a requirement for all personal vehicles. However, it is mandatory for commercial vehicles or if your business has been affected by a severe accident. For example, vehicles registered as taxis must carry roughly $125,000 per person or $250,000 per accident and $50,000 for Property Damage Liability (PDL).

It’s important to note that businesses that operate larger vehicles, like trucks or vehicles that carry hazardous materials, may have to follow federal regulations that come with greater coverage levels. As the minimum requirements vary depending on the type of business and vehicles included, and insurance law is constantly evolving in tandem with the risk landscape, it is crucial to work with a dedicated attorney who can help you ensure complete coverage.

Rising Insurance Costs in Florida

According to recent data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the state of Florida had the highest average auto insurance expenditure in 2022, estimated to be roughly $1,625. This far surpasses the nation’s average of $1,127. Additionally, commercial policies, which are often riskier and more complex, tend to deviate from these averages, particularly in metropolitan areas such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach.

Key Considerations for Florida Business Owners

Traffic-heavy areas can have a significant impact on commercial insurance considerations and rates. As Miami-Dade County is commonly ranked among the most crash-prone areas in Florida, with major roadways such as SR 826, I-75, and I-95 increasing accident risks, commercial insurance rates may be higher in these areas.

In addition to high-risk zones and traffic patterns, it’s crucial to take external obstacles into account, such as potential severe weather, construction, or heavy tourist traffic. Hurricane season, or heavy rainfall and flooding, can result in seasonal driving risks. Furthermore, areas that are concentrated with tourists, such as Palm Beach and South Beach, have an increased risk of accidents because of drivers who are unfamiliar with the area and intense pedestrian traffic.

Florida’s No-Fault System

Under the no-fault law in Florida, an individual involved in an accident must have their insurer pay for associated medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. For commercial policies, however, uninsured motorist coverage and liability limits are crucial to ensure your business is protected from out-of-pocket losses or litigation.

Wilson, Washburn, & Forster Insurance, Inc.: Your Commercial Auto Legal Team

At Wilson, Washburn, & Forster Insurance, Inc., attorney Dylan Ventura is leading the way in supporting businesses in the protection of their operations. Our highly skilled firm offers personalized risk management and insurance solutions, blending industry insight and consulting experience to optimize business workflows. Our firm has years of combined experience working with multiple Fortune 500 companies, finding solutions that help them thrive.

Together, we can help you reduce your losses, identify any gaps in coverage, and improve safety standards. If you’re struggling with meeting commercial auto insurance requirements, we are here to help.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Minimum Commercial Auto Insurance Requirements in Florida?

A: According to Florida law, commercial vehicles are required to carry at least $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance and $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. Many businesses may also decide to carry Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) coverage, with exact costs varying depending on factors like industry type, risks involved, and previous accident history.

Q: Do I Need Commercial Auto Insurance If I Only Have One Vehicle for Business Use in Florida?

A: Yes, even if you only have one vehicle for business use, it needs to be insured under a commercial policy in Florida. This means that even if you use your personal vehicle for carrying tools, visiting clients, or transporting goods, it needs to be covered by commercial insurance. By working with a dedicated Florida commercial insurance lawyer, you can identify business risks and ensure you have optimal coverage.

Q: How Much Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cost in Florida?

A:  The cost of commercial auto insurance in Florida varies drastically depending on the vehicle type involved, the location of your business, your driving history, and the type of industry you work in. It’s important to note, however, that Florida had the greatest average auto insurance expenses in 2022 of $1,625. Commercial policies tend to be more expensive due to higher exposure to risks.

Q: Is My Business Liable If an Employee Gets Into an Accident While Driving a Company Vehicle in Florida?

A: Yes, your Florida business is liable if an employee gets into an accident while driving a company vehicle. This is because, as a general rule, employers are liable for the damages that are caused by employees who are operating company property during tasks that are related to work. Therefore, it’s crucial to have adequate liability coverage and make sure that all drivers are clearly listed on your policy.

Hire a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer in Florida

At Wilson, Washburn, & Forster Insurance, Inc., we deliver protection that is personalized to your unique business. We can help you navigate the complex and constantly evolving commercial auto insurance landscape in Florida and help your business thrive. Don’t wait until an accident happens. Schedule a consultation with Wilson, Washburn, & Forster Insurance, Inc., today to start discussing your case.