Many people often choose to purchase the least expansion insurance out there. This oftentimes means they’re getting the least amount of coverage available in their state. In Florida, you can opt-out of bodily injury coverage and more, leaving you with really bare-bones coverage.
Florida is ranked six out of 10 for motorcycle accident fatalities. With Florida being one of the most dangerous states for motorcyclists, this isn’t a great idea. There are thousands of deaths because of motorcycle accidents each year, with 516 deaths occurring in Florida in 2021.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) states that motorcyclists are 35 times more at risk for a fatal accident than other drivers of motor vehicles, specifically passenger vehicles. Because motorcyclists are at high risk of injury or death, it’s important to ensure that you have good insurance coverage that can protect you in the unfortunate circumstance that you are involved in an accident. Here are five reasons why you shouldn’t skimp on motorcycle insurance in Florida.
Reason #1: Medical Expenses Add Up Quickly
When you get into any kind of accident that requires medical treatment, those bills can add up quickly. Medical treatment can cost you tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. And while your insurance coverage may cover certain things, co-pays, deductibles, and other items that aren’t covered can add up quickly.
Many people often choose to pay less in insurance each month in exchange for a higher deductible. But if you’re in an accident, your deductibles will add up. You should always ensure that your motorcycle insurance covers emergency services, hospital stays, long-term care, and more with little to no out-of-pocket cost.
Reason #2: Your Accident May Put You Out of Work
Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, amputation, and more, may require you to miss work. You may have sick time or vacation days saved up that you can use. But it may not be enough to cover potentially months of missed work. If you opt for the lowest level of insurance coverage, you likely won’t have any coverage for the loss of income.
Consider your profession and how difficult it would be to work with an injury if you were to get into an accident. If it would be difficult to work with any type of incapacitating injury, consider choosing better coverage.
Reason #3: Your Family Deserves Coverage
In the unfortunate circumstance that you pass away as a result of a motorcycle accident, your family deserves to have coverage for your death. If you don’t have adequate coverage, they may be left paying out of pocket for your medical bills, funeral expenses, and burial costs.
To protect your family from having to dish out a large sum of money after your death, purchase an insurance policy that covers funeral and burial costs.
Reason #4: It’s Possible That You May Cause an Accident
When you’re the victim of a car accident, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party and claim benefits from their insurance company. In the case that you cause the accident, you may be sued by the other involved parties.
Thankfully, Florida is a no-fault state. This means you can receive compensation for your damages whether or not you caused the accident. However, to take advantage of this compensation, you need to have the best insurance policy.
Personal injury protection (or no-fault insurance) is actually required in Florida. But you get to choose which level of coverage you’d like. It may be more expensive, but choosing a higher coverage level can save you headaches in the future.
Reason #5: If You Get into an Accident Without Insurance, It Will be Expensive
It’s your choice to choose the level of insurance you hold. However, choosing to ride a motorcycle that is completely uninsured is illegal in the state of Florida.
If you don’t have any insurance and you get into an accident, you may not receive any compensation—especially if you’re the one who causes the accident. You’ll then have to pay for your medical bills and other losses out of your own pocket. This can get quite expensive (even with minor injuries).
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Our Experienced Team of Attorneys for Assistance
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash at the fault of another party, our talented team of accident attorneys can help you get the compensation that you deserve for your damages.
An experienced attorney has experience negotiating settlements and taking cases to trial when needed. You’ll be able to relax and recover from your injuries knowing that your case is in good hands.
For more information or to schedule a free case evaluation at The Eberst Law Firm, please contact us online. Or you can chat with us or call us at 352-269-0017.
