DOES YOUR AUTOMOBILE / MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE PROVIDE YOU WITH “FULL COVERAGE”? ALMOST CERTAINLY NOT…

Jason B. Goldman • September 8, 2015

Full coverage Punta Gorda motorcycle insurance Port Charlotte motorcycle Insurance

I have handled countless automobile, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Englewood in the last 20 years. At the beginning of every claim, I ask my prospective client “Do you know what levels of insurance coverage you have?” I’d venture to say that 80% of people respond with the same answer: “Oh, I have  full coverage ”. Of all the folks who believe they have “full coverage”, in my experience less than 1 in 10 actually does. Full coverage Punta Gorda motorcycle insurance Port Charlotte motorcycle Insurance dos not always fully cover you in the case of an accident!

Most people believe they have “full coverage” because they purchased a policy which includes “coverage” under every category where insurance is offered, such as:

  1. Personal Injury Protection (pays for your medical bills)
  2. Property Damage (pays for damage to other vehicle if you cause accident)
  3. Comprehensive (pays for damages to your vehicle caused by another driver)
  4. Towing Expenses
  5. Vehicle Rental
  6. Bodily Injury (compensates another who you’ve negligently injured in an accident)
  7. Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist (compensates you for injury if driver who caused accident is uninsured or underinsured)

People believe merely having all seven (7) of these coverages, regardless of the actual amount of coverage they’ve purchased, is “full coverage”, because Florida law (shamefully, I might add) only requires two (2) of these coverages, i.e. $10,000.00 in Property Damage coverage and $10,000.00 in Personal Injury Protection benefits. Let me show you with some simple examples why having merely purchased all of these coverages as part of your insurance policy, without focusing on the actual amounts of the coverages you’ve purchased, does not equate to having “full coverage”. I will focus on Property Damage coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood, Bodily Injury coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood, and Unsinured/Underinsured Motorist coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood. These are the three (3) coverages for Full coverage Punta Gorda motorcycle insurance Port Charlotte motorcycle insurance where most people fall woefully short, and don’t realize it until it’s too late.

Property Damage Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

Florida law only requires us to carry $10,000.00 in Property Damage coverage, which pays for property damage you caused as a result of negligently operating your car or motorcycle. If you cause more than $10,000.00 in property damage, however, you are personally responsible for all damages above the $10,000.00 limit you purchased. If you accidentally go through a red light and broadside a newer model luxury car, do you feel $10,000.00 in Property Damage coverage is enough to cover that loss? Probably not. If you accidentally rear-end a vehicle stopped in line at a red light and that vehicles pushes forward into another vehicle, do you feel $10,000.00 in Property Damage coverage is enough to cover the property damage of two vehicles? Probably not. In these scenarios, other drivers and their insurance companies will be suing you personally for all of their property damage over and above your $10,000.00 Property damage insurance limit.

Solution Regarding Property Damage Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

Purchase at least $50,000.00 in Property Damage coverage, but we recommend $100,000.00 in light of the increasing cost of automobiles and their repair.

Bodily Injury Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

Bodily Injury coverage compensates someone you’ve negligently injured in an accident. Please recall that Florida law does not require you to purchase any Bodily Injury coverage. Nonetheless, you responsibly decide to purchase some level of Bodily Injury coverage. You can generally purchase this coverage for limits anywhere from a minimum of $10,000.00, all the way up through $1,000,000.00. So, how much should you purchase to make sure that you’re “fully covered”?

Statistics seem to bear out that each of us, at least once in our lives, will cause an accident that involves serious injury to another, i.e. bone fractures, a surgical procedure performed, substantial scarring, etc. Serious injury claims usually involve voluntary settlements or jury verdicts which exceed $100,000.00. If you’ve purchased only $50,000.00 in Bodily Injury coverage, do you feel you’re fully covered if this scenario occurs? Clearly not. In this instance, you can be sued by the injured party, and any judgment entered in excess of your $50,000.00 Bodily Injury insurance limit will be entered against you personally. Obtaining the proper level of Bodily Injury coverage, and the financial protection it provides, is even more important for those who have reached a level of financial comfort and security in their lives. The more financial success you’ve enjoyed, the more you have to protect.

Recommendations Regarding Bodily Injury Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

  1. Unless financially impossible for you to afford, never carry less than $100,000.00 Bodily Injury coverage.
  2. The more assets you own and personal wealth you’ve accumulated, the more Bodily Injury coverage you need to purchase.
  3. When deciding on the proper level of Bodily Injury coverage to purchase, have an honest discussion with your local insurance agent or an attorney like myself regarding your assets and personal wealth. This conversation takes less than 30 minutes. Unfortunately, this incredibly important discussion almost never occurs when people purchase their automobile/motorcycle insurance coverage. The amount of Bodily Injury coverage you purchase should be directly related to the amount of assets you’ve accumulated. The more assets and wealth you have, the more Bodily Injury coverage you require.

Unisnured /Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverages compensates you if you’re injured by another driver who either doesn’t have insurance, or has Bodily Injury coverage in an amount that’s less than the value of your injury claim. Please recall that Florida law (shamefully) does not require vehicle owners to carry any Bodily Injury coverage at all. As a result, if a negligent driver either without insurance or who has purchased an amount of Bodily Injury coverage that is far less than the value of your injury claim causes you serious injury, there may be no coverage (or very little coverage) to compensate you for your loss. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage protects you from this all-too-common scenario in Florida. You can generally purchase this coverage for limits anywhere from a minimum of $10,000.00, all the way up through $1,000,000.00. So, how much should you purchase to make sure that you’re “fully covered”?

Statistics coincidentally seem to bear out that not only will each of us, at least once in our lives, cause an accident that involves serious injury to another, they also indicate that each of us will be seriously injured by another in an accident at least once in our lives. Knowing these statistics, obtaining a proper level of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits is crucial in Florida, a state in which other drivers are not required to carry any Bodily Injury coverage whatsoever.

Once again, serious injury claims usually involve voluntary settlements or jury verdicts which exceed $100,000.00. If you’ve purchased only $25,000.00 in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage, do you feel you’re fully covered if this common scenario occurs? Clearly not. In this instance, for example, you could suffer a $500,000.00 injury and collect only $25,000.00 because of a lack of insurance coverage limits between the other driver’s Bodily Injury and your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverages. This sad scenario happens each and every day in Florida.

Purchasing Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage in substantial amounts is particularly important for motorcyclists. There are very few motorcycle accidents which involve only “minor” injuries, because motorcyclists have little protection. Whereas the occupant of an automobile is protected by seat-belts, air-bags, and the carriage of the vehicle, the motorcyclist has no such protections. Motorcyclists often contact the roadway at substantial force, which almost always brings about serious injuries such as fractures, internal injuries, paralysis, or death.

Recommendations Regarding Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood:

  1. Florida law does not allow you to carry more Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits (which protects you from the negligence of others) than what you carry for Bodily Injury coverage (which protects others from your negligence). As a result, you can never protect yourself from the negligence of others more than you are willing to protect others from your negligence. So if you want to fully protect you and your family, you will need to protect the public fully from you!
  2. Unless financially impossible for you to afford, never carry less than $100,000.00 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits. If you ride a motorcycle and can afford the coverage, never carry less than $250,000.00 in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits. Simple accident statistics show that you will almost certainly need this coverage at some point in your life.
  3. Always “stack” your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage. “Stacking”, the cost of which is fairly minimal, multiplies your level of coverage by the number of automobiles you have on your policy. Thus, if you choose to purchase $100,000.00 in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits and you have three (3) vehicles on your insurance policy, you in fact have $300,000.00 in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage.
  4. When deciding on the proper level of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits to purchase, have an honest discussion with your local insurance agent or an attorney like myself regarding your assets, personal wealth, and family situation. This conversation takes less than 30 minutes. Unfortunately, this incredibly important discussion almost never occurs when people purchase their automobile/motorcycle insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Please take out your automobile or motorcycle insurance policy in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood. Take a look at what coverages you purchased, and more importantly, pay special attention to the amount of coverage you purchased, especially for Bodily Injury coverage and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits. Ask yourself these simple questions:

  1. “If I caused an accident this week, and the driver I injured suffered a non-surgical wrist fracture, a rotator cuff tear which required surgery, and a serious ankle fracture which required surgery to insert a plate and screws to stabilize the fracture, do I have an appropriate level of Bodily Injury coverage which fairly compensates the injured driver, and in so doing protects me from getting sued?”
  2. “If I were in an accident this week caused by an uninsured or seriously underinsured driver, and I suffered a non-surgical wrist fracture, a rotator cuff tear which required surgery, and a serious ankle fracture which required surgery to insert a plate and screws to stabilize the fracture, do I have an appropriate level of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist benefits to fairly compensate me and my family for my injuries, lost wages, unpaid medical expenses?”

If your answer to either question is “no”, you, like most others, do not have the “full coverage” you believed you had. If you have additional questions regarding the topic of this blog post, or would like to review your automobile/motorcycle insurance policy in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood with me, I would be happy to speak with you.

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Understanding Mediation: A Smarter Path to Resolving Disputes

By Jason B. Goldman • April 6, 2026
When facing a legal dispute, many people assume their only option is a lengthy court battle. However, there's often a better way: mediation. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, we've seen how mediation can save time, money, and relationships while achieving outcomes that satisfy all parties. What Is Mediation? Mediation is a collaborative process where an impartial third party—the mediator—helps disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike a judge who imposes a decision, a mediator facilitates communication and guides parties toward their own agreement. Why Choose Mediation? Cost-Effective & Fast Mediation costs a fraction of litigation and typically resolves in a half-day to full-day session—not years. You Stay in Control Unlike court decisions, mediated settlements put you in the driver's seat. You control the outcome. Preserve Relationships Mediation's collaborative approach can preserve business partnerships, neighbor relations, and other ongoing connections. Confidential & Binding Everything discussed stays private, and agreements you help create are more likely to be honored. When Should You Consider Mediation? Mediation works at any stage: Before filing a lawsuit (most cost-effective) During litigation (often court-ordered) Even post-judgment Jason B. Goldman: Certified Charlotte County Mediator Attorney Jason B. Goldman has been certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a circuit court mediator since 2002. Our Mediation Services We mediate cases throughout Charlotte County and beyond: Business and commercial disputes Real estate and construction conflicts Personal injury claims Contract disagreements Pre-suit negotiations Ready to Resolve Your Dispute? Contact Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges today at (941) 625-6666 to schedule your mediation session.

Easter Weekend Safety - Protecting Your Family This Holiday

By Jason B. Goldman • April 6, 2026
Easter weekend is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and fun traditions. But as personal injury attorneys who've spent decades serving Charlotte County, we know that holidays can also bring increased risks on our roadways and in our communities. The Reality of Holiday Traffic Easter weekend consistently ranks as one of the deadliest holiday periods for traffic accidents in Florida. With families traveling to visit relatives, increased alcohol consumption at gatherings, and distracted drivers rushing to events, the roads become significantly more dangerous. According to Florida Highway Safety data, Easter weekend sees a spike in DUI arrests and serious accidents. As you plan your celebrations this year, keep these safety tips in mind: Plan ahead for a designated driver if your celebration involves alcohol Watch for increased pedestrian traffic around churches and parks Be extra cautious at intersections - we know Charlotte County's dangerous crossroads well Secure children properly in car seats when traveling to family gatherings Easter Egg Hunts and Premises Liability If you're hosting an Easter egg hunt or attending one at a church, park, or community center, be aware of potential hazards. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. We've seen injuries from: Uneven ground causing trip-and-fall accidents Hidden hazards in tall grass where eggs are hidden Dog bites when excited pets interact with children during outdoor events Pool accidents when Easter parties include swimming Your Rights After a Holiday Accident If you or a loved one is injured this Easter weekend due to someone else's negligence - whether it's a drunk driver, an unsafe property, or any other preventable accident - don't wait to seek legal guidance. Evidence disappears, witnesses' memories fade, and insurance companies start building their defense immediately. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, we're here even during the holidays. As lifetime residents of Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda, this is our community, and these are our neighbors. We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy Easter. This Easter, celebrate the renewal of spring - but stay safe doing it. And if the unexpected happens, remember that we're always here to help.

Why Spring Is a Smart Time to Review Your Insurance Coverage in Charlotte County

By Jason B. Goldman • March 3, 2026
As the seasons change and spring arrives in Southwest Florida, many homeowners and drivers begin tackling projects, travel plans, and home improvements. It’s a time of renewal and preparation but it’s also the perfect time to review something that’s often overlooked: your insurance coverage. At GTS Law Firm, we often work with individuals and families who discover too late that their policies don’t fully protect them after an accident or unexpected event. A simple coverage review now can help prevent major financial and legal stress later. Why Spring Is the Right Time to Take a Second Look Spring often brings changes in routine. People start driving more, hosting gatherings, making home upgrades, and preparing for hurricane season. All of these changes can affect your level of risk and whether your current coverage still fits your needs. Some common life updates that may require coverage adjustments include: Purchasing a new vehicle Renovating or adding to your home Starting a home-based business Adding a teen driver to your policy Buying recreational equipment like boats, golf carts, or motorcycles When coverage isn’t updated to reflect these changes, gaps can appear that only become obvious after an accident happens. The Risk of Being Underinsured Many people assume they’re fully protected because they have insurance in place. However, in personal injury cases, we often see situations where policy limits are too low to cover medical bills, lost wages, or long-term care needs after a serious accident. This can affect both sides: If you’re injured, the at-fault party may not have enough coverage to fully compensate you. If you’re responsible for an accident, limited coverage could leave you personally liable for the remaining costs. Reviewing your policies regularly helps ensure you’re protected from unexpected financial exposure. Coverage Areas Worth Reviewing Spring is a great time to sit down and evaluate a few key areas: Auto Insurance: Make sure your liability limits, uninsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage are still appropriate for your situation. Homeowners Insurance: If you’ve made improvements, added structures, or purchased valuables, your policy may need updating. Umbrella Policies: These provide an extra layer of protection beyond standard home and auto coverage and can be especially valuable for families with significant assets. Liability Protection: If you host guests, own a pool, or have pets, additional liability coverage may be worth considering. Prevention Is Always Easier Than Recovery While legal support is available after an accident, the goal is always to prevent hardship before it happens. Adequate coverage can help ensure that if the unexpected occurs, you and your family are protected. Taking an hour to review your policies now could save months, or even years, of financial and emotional stress down the road. A Season for Preparedness Spring is all about getting ready for what’s ahead. Just as people clean, organize, and prepare their homes, it’s also the ideal time to make sure your protection plans are current and complete. At GTS Law Firm, we’re committed to helping Charlotte County residents stay informed and protected. Understanding your risks and making proactive decisions today can help you move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

St. Patrick’s Day Safety: Celebrating Responsibly in Charlotte County

By Jason B. Goldman • March 3, 2026
St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, community gatherings, and enjoying time with friends and family. From parades to parties, the holiday brings plenty of excitement but it also comes with increased risks, especially when alcohol is involved. At GTS Law Firm, we encourage everyone in Charlotte County to enjoy the festivities while keeping safety at the forefront. Why St. Patrick’s Day Comes with Higher Risks St. Patrick’s Day is consistently associated with a rise in alcohol-related incidents, including impaired driving, slips and falls, and preventable accidents. Even one poor decision like getting behind the wheel after drinking can have life-changing consequences. Beyond driving, celebrations can also lead to injuries from overcrowded venues, distracted behavior, or simply overconsumption. Being mindful and planning ahead can make all the difference. Smart Ways to Celebrate Safely You can still have a great time while making responsible choices. Here are a few ways to enjoy the holiday and protect yourself and others: Plan a safe ride home. Use a designated driver, rideshare service, or make arrangements in advance. Stay aware of your surroundings. Crowded events can increase the risk of accidents. Pace yourself. Drinking water and eating throughout the day helps prevent overconsumption. Look out for friends. Make sure everyone in your group gets home safely. Host responsibly. If you’re having people over, offer food, non-alcoholic drinks, and help guests arrange safe transportation. The Reality of Impaired Driving Impaired driving remains one of the biggest dangers on St. Patrick’s Day. It doesn’t just put the driver at risk, it endangers passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers on the road. In many personal injury cases, the impact of one moment of poor judgment leads to serious injury, financial stress, and long-term emotional trauma for multiple families. If an Accident Happens Even when you do everything right, you can’t control others’ actions. If you or a loved one is injured due to someone else’s negligence, whether from a drunk driver, unsafe property conditions, or another preventable situation. It’s important to understand your rights and options. Documenting the incident, seeking medical attention right away, and speaking with a legal professional can help protect your well-being and your future. Celebrate the Holiday the Right Way St. Patrick’s Day should be remembered for laughter, connection, and celebration—not for accidents that could have been avoided. A little planning and awareness can go a long way toward keeping the holiday fun and safe for everyone in Charlotte County. From all of us at GTS Law Firm, we wish you a happy, safe, and responsible St. Patrick’s Day.