Personal Injury Protection Does Not Apply to Sarasota Motorcycle Riders
There is a mandatory requirement in the state of Florida for car drivers, or any driver of a vehicle with four or more wheels, to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage in the event of an accident which causes injuries. Essentially, a PIP claim is made when an auto driver makes a claim against their own insurer to pay for medical bills and lost earnings for not being able to work due to his or her injuries. PIP is no-fault, meaning an auto driver can make one even if they are at fault.
Since motorcycles are vehicles with less than four wheels, PIP coverage is not available to them outright. Even if a driver owns both a car and a motorcycle, and has mandatory PIP on the car, that coverage still does not apply on the motorcycle. Motorcycle riders simply do not have the benefit of PIP in Florida. Florida motor vehicle laws have unique components, so if you or someone you love has been injured in a Florida motorcycle accident, talk to a Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney to understand your rights.
Many Motorcycle Accidents Happen In Florida
Unfortunately, Florida has the most motorcycle accident deaths of any state in the nation. This may be because the sunny Florida weather allows riders to enjoy their bikes throughout the calendar year, increasing the odds of accidents, but it is also due to the fact that wearing a helmet is optional on Florida roads and highways.
While people often think of motorcycles causing accidents, most accidents between cars and motorcycles happen because the car driver made mistakes.
How car drivers cause accidents with motorcycles:
- Failing to see a motorcycle within the flow of traffic.
- Not understanding the speed of an approaching motorcycle.
- Ignoring traffic rules and signs.
- Driving recklessly, including using a cell phone to talk or text.
- Getting behind the wheel when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If a motorcyclist is injured to no fault of their own, they can file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault automobile driver for compensation.
Unleash Hale After a Motorcycle Accident
When you are seeking compensation for a motorcycle injury, it is important to discuss your case with a Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney who understands the ins and outs of Florida law. After they explore the police report and go through their own thorough investigation, an experienced attorney can explain your options to you, including how much compensation you could be awarded.
Accident injuries can be severe, even fatal. It is common for there to be large hospital bills, lost wages, and lifelong impacts from a motor vehicle accident. An attorney who has won similar cases understands what is attainable and what you might need to cover future expenses associated with the life-changing accident.
If you are involved in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident in Sarasota, or throughout the state of Florida, contact Hale Law at 941-735-4529 to discuss your options. Our Sarasota personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no fees or costs if we are unable to recover compensation for you.
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