In Florida, obtaining insurance is a crucial step that must be completed before purchasing a car. This legal requirement ensures you’re covered when you drive off the lot. In this article, we’ll walk you through the required steps, so you’ll know what to expect.
Understand Florida’s Car Insurance Requirements
Florida requires all drivers to carry a minimum level of insurance. This includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage. Before buying a car, you must have proof of insurance; most dealerships will not let you drive away without it.
Contact Your Current Insurance Provider
If you already have car insurance, contact your provider to add your new car to your policy. Most insurers allow you to add a new vehicle by phone, email, or online. This is one of the easiest ways to ensure you have coverage before purchasing. Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and any other pertinent details on hand so you can update your policy quickly.
Obtain Temporary Coverage If You Don’t Have an Active Policy
You can purchase temporary car insurance if you do not have a current insurance policy. Many companies offer short-term insurance policies that last a few days or weeks. This type of insurance is perfect for when you are buying a car and need coverage immediately. It gives you time to shop for a more permanent policy once you have finalized your purchase.
Shop Around for Insurance Quotes
Getting the right car insurance policy does not have to be complicated. Start by shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurance companies. Look for a plan that meets Florida’s minimum coverage requirements and fits your needs and budget. You can get quotes online or by calling insurance agents to discuss your options.
Choose Your Insurance Provider
Once you have reviewed several quotes, choose an insurance provider and coverage that best suits your situation. Make sure the policy is active before you finalize the car purchase. When you are ready to sign the papers for a new or used car, you must provide proof of insurance. You can get proof of coverage through an insurance card or a digital document.
Proof of Insurance: A Must-Have
Before you purchase your new car, make sure to have your proof of insurance ready. Whether you are buying a new car or a pre-owned vehicle, having insurance confirms that you are protected on the road. This step is mandatory and required by most dealerships to ensure that you can drive legally.
Finalize Your Purchase
Once you have secured your car insurance, it is time to complete your purchase. Bring your proof of insurance to the dealership and finalize the paperwork. After everything is signed, you will be ready to confidently drive your new or used car off the lot, knowing you are fully covered.
Knowing how to get car insurance before buying a car in Florida is vital to car-buying. It makes sure you meet legal requirements and are protected from the moment you drive away.
How We Can Help
At Matthews-Currie Ford, we make sure you have a smooth car-buying experience. We offer a wide selection of used cars and new vehicles for sale, all backed by expert customer service. Our team can help you secure insurance before you finalize your purchase. Whether you need help with your auto loan or understanding insurance requirements, we are here to help every step of the way.
