163 motorcycle crashes occurred in Sarasota in 2021, and these crashes caused 142 injuries and 12 deaths. Motorcycle crashes are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents, but motorcyclists are not covered by Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance in Florida.
While motorcycles are technically considered motor vehicles in Florida, the state’s no-fault auto insurance laws don’t apply to motorcyclists. So, unlike other motorists, motorcyclists are not required to carry any kind of insurance coverage. But they should consider getting insurance just to be on the safe side.
Under no-fault auto insurance laws, motor vehicles are vehicles with four wheels or more. Certain tricycles, mopeds, and other vehicles used for mass transport (those carrying five passengers or more) are likewise not required to be covered by PIP.
This means that even if you own a vehicle in Florida, carry proper auto insurance coverage, and get into an accident while riding your motorcycle, your PIP insurance will not cover your medical expenses, lost income, and related losses resulting from the motorcycle accident.
Will My Health Insurance Cover My Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Ideally, if you have health insurance coverage, this should cover your medical expenses if you get injured in a motorcycle accident. But more and more insurance providers are now excluding coverage for motorcycle accident injuries. This exclusion usually extends to dangerous activities, including riding jet skis or ATVs. Check your health insurance policy and look for the part that details the exclusions or call your insurer for more information.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Sarasota?
After getting proper medical attention and reporting the motorcycle accident to the police, you should discuss your case with a Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney right away who can:
- Investigate the accident scene thoroughly to figure out what caused the motorcycle crash and who is at fault and liable for your injuries.
- Evaluate all the available insurance policies. Fault-based personal injury claims involve bringing a claim against the insurer of the at-fault motorist. Before your Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney files your claim, they can review any insurance policy you may have and the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.
- Negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurer. Negotiating a settlement that will cover all your losses is immensely difficult. The insurer will try to deny your claim or offer you the lowest amount possible. When you work with an attorney, they will handle the negotiations with the insurer and make certain that you receive the compensation that is rightfully yours.
- Fight for fair compensation in court. If the at-fault driver’s insurer is disputing liability for the motorcycle crash, downplaying your injuries and damages, or denying your claim, your attorney will not hesitate to fight for your rights in court.
Connect With an Experienced Sarasota Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
To learn more about seeking compensation for your losses after getting hurt in a motorcycle accident, please don’t hesitate to contact Matthews Injury Law for legal guidance. Send us a message online or call 941-877-5800 to arrange your free consultation with our Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney.