What’s the Difference Between Stacked & Unstacked Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida?

Florida has one of the highest numbers of uninsured drivers in the country. That means even a seemingly minor crash can turn into a serious financial problem if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, or doesn’t have enough of it.

That’s where Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage comes in. It’s designed to protect you, the policyholder, if you’re injured by a driver who lacks adequate liability insurance. But not all UM coverage is created equal. When you purchase this protection, you’ll often be asked whether you want it “stacked” or “unstacked.”

The choice you make could significantly affect the amount of compensation you’re entitled to after a crash.

What is Stacked Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Florida?

Stacked UM coverage allows you to combine, or “stack,” the limits of UM/UIM coverage across multiple insured vehicles. This increases your potential coverage amount in the event of an accident.

For example, if you have two vehicles insured under one policy, each with $50,000 of UM coverage, a stacked policy could allow you to “stack” the coverage essentially giving you access to $100,000 in protection for a single accident.

Stacked coverage may apply:

  • Across multiple vehicles listed on one policy
  • Across multiple policies you hold under the same name or household
  • Even if the accident involved a vehicle you don’t own, as long as you or a covered household member are involved

Advantages of stacked coverage:

  • Broader protection across all your vehicles
  • Higher available coverage limits for serious injuries
  • May apply even if you’re injured as a pedestrian or passenger in another vehicle

Because of its flexibility, stacked UM coverage typically costs more, but it provides a stronger safety net if you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

Attorney Nicholas Thompson explains: “Stacked UM coverage gives you financial breathing room after a serious crash. For many clients, it’s the difference between being fully compensated or facing uncovered medical expenses and lost income.”

Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Florida & Should You Have It?

Florida law does not require drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. However, insurance companies are required to offer it and obtain a signed waiver if you choose to reject it.

While it’s technically optional, declining UM coverage can be risky. Florida’s minimum insurance laws don’t require drivers to carry bodily injury liability coverage. This means if you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you may be left to cover your own medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

UM/UIM coverage steps in to pay for:

  • Medical expenses not covered by your PIP benefits
  • Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
  • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
  • Long-term or permanent disability

Whether you choose stacked or unstacked coverage determines how much protection you’ll actually have in these situations.

Attorney Shaun Serelson adds: “Florida’s no-fault system can leave drivers exposed. Having UM coverage, especially stacked, is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.”

Understanding the Differences Between Stacked vs. Unstacked Coverage

Comparison of uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage options.

Stacked vs. Unstacked UM Coverage
Feature Stacked Coverage Unstacked Coverage
Coverage Limits Combines UM limits across multiple vehicles Applies only to one vehicle’s limit per accident
Applies To Any insured vehicle, and often you as a pedestrian or passenger Only the specific vehicle listed on the policy
Cost Higher premium Lower premium
Coverage Flexibility Broader and more adaptable Limited to the specific car involved
Best For Multi-vehicle households or high-mileage drivers Single-vehicle owners or those seeking minimal coverage

In short, stacked coverage offers more protection, while unstacked coverage offers more affordability.

How Would Speaking with a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Help Me Understand My Insurance Coverage Rights?

Choosing between stacked and unstacked UM coverage can be confusing, and understanding how it applies after an accident can be even more complicated. Insurance companies often downplay how your coverage works or try to limit payouts based on policy language.

That’s why having an experienced attorney makes a difference. RTRLAW’s Florida car accident lawyers can:

  • Review your auto insurance policy for stacked/unstacked coverage
  • Explain how your coverage applies after a crash
  • Help you file a UM/UIM claim if you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your recovery

Attorney Angel Perez advises: “Many clients come to us thinking their insurance won’t help them, but once we review the policy, we often find stacked coverage or household benefits that make a huge difference in their case value.”

Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens

The best time to understand your UM coverage isn’t after an accident. It’s before one. Reviewing your policy now can help you make an informed decision about whether stacked coverage is right for you.

At RTRLAW, our auto accident attorneys help Florida drivers understand their coverage, file strong uninsured motorist claims, and hold insurance companies accountable when they try to underpay or deny benefits.

If you’ve been injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Florida, call RTRLAW today at 1-833-HIRE-RTR (1-833-447-3787) for a free, confidential consultation.

We’ll explain your options, review your insurance policy, and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.