Did you know that you can file an auto insurance claim after a bicycle accident in Florida?
If you’re surprised, listen up. Your car insurance usually only pays for damages that you cause while driving, but if a driver hits you while you’re riding and they are found to be at fault, you can actually get coverage for your injuries by using your own insurance policy. You can do this because you’re technically a pedestrian—defined as someone who is not operating a vehicle that is “self-propelled.” Since you power your bike with your legs, that definition includes you when you’re on a bike.
But wait. Wouldn’t the at-fault driver’s insurance cover your medical expenses? That’s a great question. Normally it would. However, some exceptions to the rule can mean you need to file a claim with your own insurance.
Want to learn more? Here’s what you need to know.
The Driver’s Insurance Might Not Cover Your Bicycle Accident Injuries
A few instances exist in which the at-fault driver’s insurance might not cover you. For one, what if the driver doesn’t have insurance? After all, at any given time about 15% of drivers on the road across the country don’t carry insurance. It could be because they never purchased a policy. Maybe their coverage lapsed because they didn’t pay their premiums. The driver who causes your bicycle might have stolen the car they are driving. So many situations can come into play that can affect your ability to make a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Their Insurance Could Be Inadequate
Even if the driver who caused your bicycle accident has insurance, there’s no guarantee that the coverage is adequate. Whatever the limit on the benefit values of the policy, your hospital bills could easily exceed it if you’re badly injured.
Get Uninsured Motorist Coverage
So, how do you file a claim with your own insurance if you’re in a bicycle accident? First, you need to add uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy. Take a look at your policy as soon as possible to make sure you have it because it could end up saving you a lot of grief. If you get around by bicycle often, it is practically indispensable because it will cover what the other driver’s insurance should have paid.
Do you need help with your bicycle accident case?
The real shame is that this information might be getting to you too late. If you’ve suffered injuries from a bicycle accident and you need assistance getting the compensation that you need and deserve, do not hesitate to contact us. Talk to us today to set up an appointment to go over the details of your case. We will work with you so that you can heal and move on with your life.