Despite the fact that Florida law requires all drivers to carry auto insurance, statistics show that Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation. Florida also has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents, and this means that far too many riders are finding themselves injured and with limited options for seeking financial compensation.
However, while motorcycle riders injured by uninsured drivers may have limited options, this does not mean that they have no options at all. In fact, depending on the circumstances, injured riders will often have a few different ways to recover their medical bills, property damage and other losses.
Recovering Your Losses After an Uninsured Motorist Accident
Option #1: Personal Injury Protection and Collision Coverage
The first option is to file a claim under your own personal injury protection (PIP) and collision coverage policies. Personal injury protection is required by law – so you should have it. Collision coverage is optional (it covers damage to your bike), so you will need to review your policy to determine if you are covered.
These coverages likely will not cover all of your losses after a serious motorcycle accident; but, they are a start. Our injury lawyers can help make sure you receive maximum benefits under your policy.
Option #2: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Another optional addition to standard motorcycle insurance policies is uninsured/underinsure motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If you have UM/UIM coverage, this could be your best option for seeking compensation after an accident involving an uninsured motorist. Depending on your policy limit, your UM/UIM policy could provide full compensation (including compensation for loss of income) for your injuries. But, since filing a successful UM/UIM claim requires proof of fault, it also means going through the process of filing a contested claim with your insurance company.
Option #3: Identifying Another At-Fault Party
Finally, it is possible that the driver who hit you was not the only one at fault in the accident. After a motorcycle accident involving an uninsured driver, it is particularly important to conduct an investigation to determine if another party may be to blame. A thorough investigation may reveal that the uninsured driver’s employer, a vehicle or part manufacturer, or even the government authority responsible for maintaining the road is at least partially liable for your losses.
Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver?
Could you also sue the uninsured driver? Possibly, though in most cases the juice will not be worth the squeeze. If someone isn’t paying for auto insurance, he or she is unlikely to have the assets to cover your accident-related losses. Nonetheless, it is an option worth discussing with your attorney.
Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A. | Niceville Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident involving an uninsured driver, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your case. The initial consultation is free, and we do not charge any legal fees unless we help you secure financial compensation. To schedule an appointment with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Niceville, call (850) 682-2757 or inquire online today.