Insurance Guidelines For Florida Motorcycle Operators
Motorcycles are popular in the state of Florida. While one estimate reports there are 8-9 million motorcycles registered in the U.S., over half a million of them are in Florida. Because there are so many motorcycles, it makes sense that the state has set rules about their use and the insurance coverage that bike operators are required to carry.
It is an unfortunate reality that crashes involving motorcycles, cars, and pedestrians can lead to expensive medical fees and large property bills. After an accident, discuss the facts of your case with a Florida personal injury lawyer.
Operators, Licenses, and Insurance
While motorcycle riders who are over 21 are not required to wear a helmet in Florida, it is a requirement for anyone under the age of 21, passengers and operators alike. That said, always wearing a helmet, regardless of age, is best practice to shield operators and passengers from life-threatening harm in the event of a collision.
Motorcycle operators do need to carry medical insurance. A ten thousand dollar minimum level of coverage is in palace in order for medical care to be accessed in the event of a collision. This coverage will be part of your motorcycle policy, it is a form of personal injury protection, commonly referred to as PIP. The cost of your motorcycle insurance policy will be connected to a range of considerations, such as your age and driving history.
You will also need to have a valid license to operate a motorcycle in FL. To obtain your motorcycle license, you will need the following:
- A current license to operate a vehicle.
- Successful completion of a safety course on motorcycle safety.
- Paperwork confirmed at the appropriate office and paying a fee for our motorcycle license.
If you are involved in a crash, documentation of insurance and licensing will be reviewed by insurance companies along with the bills connected to your recovery. It is possible an insurance adjuster will tell you that they know how much your motorcycle accident claim value is worth and that you should simply sign the settlement agreement and cash the check. But to protect yourself now and into the future, talk to an attorney who can look over the details of your situation and inform you of the claims value when all damages are taken into account.
Maintaining a Safe Bike Is Essential
Motorcyclists in Clearwater, Hudson, Tampa, and throughout the state are required to maintain their bikes. This means that brakes, both front and back, are functioning. Additionally, lights, reflectors, and turn signals all need to be in good shape. Equipment failures and poor maintenance should not be ignored, devastating accident injuries could follow.
Do you believe the amount you have been offered following a Florida motorcycle injury is incorrect? You do not have to fight with professional negotiators, there are legal professionals who can talk to insurance adjusters and attorneys on your behalf. To learn the full value of your claim, talk to the skilled attorneys at Roman & Roman, a talented legal team of personal injury experts with over 100 years of combined experience. Schedule your no-obligation, free consultation today.
Although the law firm of Roman & Roman has offices in Clearwater, Hudson and Tampa, we handle cases and claims throughout Florida. We also meet personally with our clients if at all possible, rather than impersonally over the phone or on the Internet.