The Importance of Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Motorcyclists
Car accidents result in millions of dollars in annual losses across the United States. Some of the most costly crashes are those involving motorcycles. Motorcycles lack many of an automobile’s safety features, which leaves riders vulnerable to catastrophic injuries in the event of a collision.
Unfortunately, numerous accidents involve uninsured or under-insured motorists. If an at-fault driver fails to carry an automobile insurance policy, they may not have the means to cover crash damages. The car accident lawyers at the Foley Law Firm, which serves Scranton, PA, Stroudsburg, PA, and Wilkes-Barre, PA, discuss the importance of uninsured motorist coverage for motorcyclists and go over the damages that this type of insurance policy can provide.
Insurance Requirements
Each state has its own laws regarding automobile insurance coverage. In Pennsylvania, all motor vehicles subject to vehicle registration must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. According to the Pennslyvania Department of Transportation, to comply with state law, a vehicle must meet these insurance minimums:
- $15,000 for an injury or death of one person in an accident
- $30,000 for an injury or death of more than one person in an accident
- $5,000 for damage to the property of another person
Despite these regulations, uninsured drivers continue to be a problem. When an uninsured driver causes a car accident, injury victims are left to cover their own expenses.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional policy addition that allows drivers to protect their finances if they are involved in a crash caused by an uninsured driver. The policy covers accident expenses if the liable driver does not carry an insurance policy or if they flee the accident scene without providing insurance information. Insurance companies usually offer under-insured motorist coverage as well. Under-insured motorist coverage covers damages that exceed insurance minimums.
What Types of Damages Are Covered by an Uninsured Motorist Policy?
Uninsured motorist coverage is intended to cover expenses related to bodily injuries sustained by the insured driver or a passenger if they are involved in a crash with an uninsured driver. Types of damages covered by an uninsured motorist policy include:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income or diminished wage-earning capacity
- Cost of treatment for mental or emotional issues related to the accident
- Funeral and burial expenses (if injuries are fatal)
Why Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Essential for Motorcyclists?
Uninsured and under-insured motorist coverage is essential for motorcyclists. Motorcyclists have little to protect themselves from the impact of a crash, so catastrophic or fatal injuries are more likely in an accident. The costs associated with motorcycle accident injuries tend to be steep. If an uninsured motorist is at fault, the financial damages of an accident could be devastating. Uninsured motorists coverage is the best way for motorcyclists to protect themselves from financial ruin associated with a collision.
Contact Us
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by an uninsured motorist, the lawyers at the Foley Law Firm can help you consider the best way to collect financial compensation for collision losses. To discuss the details of your injuries with our lawyers, send us a message online or call (570) 424-1757 and schedule a legal consultation.