By Renata Alves · Senior Editor
Published
Answer in brief
You can add UM to a Florida policy at any time outside a binding restriction. The new coverage applies from the date it is added, not retroactively. The form you signed is not permanent; it simply documents your choice at that moment.
"When I bought my policy the agent had me sign a form rejecting uninsured motorist coverage to get the price down. I've since read that one in five Florida drivers is uninsured. Can I add it now?" — reader in Pinellas County
Yes. Call your insurer and ask to add UM at limits matching your bodily injury liability; most will also quote stacked UM. The change takes effect when the endorsement is issued and the additional premium is pro-rated. It will not apply to anything that happened before that date.
The timing caveat
If a tropical storm or hurricane watch is in effect for your county, the insurer will be under a binding restriction and cannot add coverage until it lifts. Outside storm season there is no such limit.
Why the form exists
Florida requires insurers to offer UM at your BI limits and to obtain a signed rejection if you decline or reduce it. The form protects the insurer from a later claim that UM was never offered. It is not a waiver of your right to buy it later. The UM guide explains stacked versus non-stacked and how to choose limits.
Guides referenced in this post
Guide
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
Why uninsured motorist coverage matters more in Florida than almost anywhere, stacked vs non-stacked UM, and how to choose limits.
Guide
How to Compare Car Insurance Quotes in Florida
A step-by-step method for comparing Florida car insurance quotes on equal terms: coverage set, PIP options, UM choices, deductibles and fees.