Are Motorcycles Covered by FL PIP?
Florida motorists have a no-fault insurance system. Under such a system, a driver or passenger injured in a car accident must first turn to their own auto insurance carrier to receive compensation for their medical bills and lost wages. This is accomplished through PIP insurance. However, motorcycles aren't covered under this system or required to have this coverage. Different rules apply to motorcycles and other similar vehicles in Florida.
If you or someone you love is injured in a motorcycle accident, it's best to speak with an experienced Tampa car accident attorney as soon as possible. They can help you determine what insurance policies will cover your damages.
What is PIP?
By law, each driver must carry personal injury protection coverage (PIP) under their auto insurance policy. Florida law requires a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection coverage, although drivers may choose to purchase higher coverage. PIP coverage is available to all eligible insureds, no matter who might have been at fault for their accident. One benefit of this system is that it typically allows victims to access insurance funds quicker than if they filed a claim on the at-fault party's insurance policy.
Why Doesn't PIP Apply to Motorcycles?
Despite motorcycles being defined as motor vehicles under Florida law, motorcyclists aren't required to obtain any form of motorcycle insurance when registering their bikes. Because of this, they are exempt from Florida's PIP requirements.
When it comes to insurance matters, motor vehicles only include those with four or more wheels, so motorcycles are excluded. This is the basis for the exemption and exempts other forms of transportation. For example, mopeds, some tricycles, and certain vehicles designed for "mass transit" (typically those carrying at least five passengers) are also not required to obtain PIP coverage.
Even still, Florida has other laws in place to protect riders following a crash.
Requirements for Motorcycle Riders
Operating a motorcycle or even simply being a passenger on one can be incredibly dangerous. While Florida doesn't require riders to have insurance coverage, they are required to have a minimum of $10,000 in health insurance/medical benefits coverage.
However, motorcyclists always have the option to obtain motorcycle insurance. The minimum they need to carry would be on a 10/20/10 limit, or $10,000 of bodily injury coverage per person, with no more than $20,000 coverage per accident and $10,000 of property damage coverage per accident, the same for other motor vehicles.
Questions about Motorcycle Accidents and Insurance Coverage? Contact a Skilled Tampa Car Accident Attorney Today
Motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries and property damage, leaving many wondering how they will ever pay their bills and recover both physically and financially from an accident. A skilled Tampa car accident lawyer can help you if you have questions about motorcycle accidents and insurance coverage or PIP. In fact, at Matthews Injury Law, we offer free initial consults to those injured in motor vehicle accidents and their families. You can schedule yours by calling us today at 813-530-1000 or contacting us online.