You’ve undoubtedly seen many ads from attorneys about motorcycle accident laws in Florida.  However, none seem to actually explain them. Here is some plain talk about motorcycle accidents, motorcycle laws, and motorcycle insurance that all bikers should know.

There is a very real difference in the laws relating to auto accidents and motorcycle accidents. Car accidents fall under the Florida No Fault law. This is the law that requires every insured motor vehicle to carry a minimum of $10,000 personal injury coverage—which pays medical bills and sometimes wage loss from the owner’s own insurance, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. The no-fault law also says that before someone is entitled to money for pain and suffering, he must suffer death, loss of limb, significant scarring, or permanent injury.

But the Florida No Fault law doesn’t apply these requirements to motorcycles. Although this means there is no automatic $10,000 pot to pay towards medical bills, it also means that the injured rider doesn’t need to meet “permanent injury” requirement to collect for pain and suffering from a wrongdoer causing an accident.

Because of these differences, insurance for motorcycles is very different than insurance for cars.  When you buy motorcycle insurance, you don’t automatically get coverage to pay for medical bills. You must buy this coverage, called med pay, in addition to your regular coverage. If you ride without a helmet, you’re required to carry med
pay, and it’s an important coverage you should insist!

Even if you have uninsured motorist coverage on your autos, it may not extend to your bike.  This is what protects you if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver,  or one who’s doesn’t have enough insurance to pay for your damages. In Florida, this happens more often than you might think! To protect yourself, make sure you have uninsured motorist coverage for your motorcycle.  Make sure your bike is a listed insured vehicle on your policy, and that you carry stackable UM coverage. If your bike is not a listed vehicle on your auto policy, or if you do not have UM, then buy a separate policy for your bike that includes stackable UM!

Riding your motorcycle is one of life’s great pleasures. But, for the sake of you and your family, protect yourself. If you have questions about your insurance, call us at (386) 677-HELP (4357) for a free evaluation–or fill out or quick and easy online evaluation.