Do Cyclists Need Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage?
Why Cyclists Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Bicycle accidents can happen at any time, often resulting in severe injuries and significant financial strain. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can pile up quickly, especially in places like Florida, where many drivers lack adequate insurance coverage.
Having uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM) coverage is a financial safety net for cyclists. It ensures you’re not left bearing the financial burden after a bicycle crash caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Hit and Run Accidents
We get tons of calls about hit and run accidents. When the assailant flees the scene, you can be left in a world of hurt— physically and financially. UM Insurance is another safety latch you can have while you ride to protect you, and to give you more of a financial buffer, should you ever face a hit and run scenario.
Bicycle Accident Case Example in Tampa, Florida
At Scarborough Bicycle Law, we represented a Tampa Bay cyclist involved in a devastating bicycle accident. He was rear-ended while biking by a driver who failed to take her diabetic medication, causing him to crash through the windshield and into the passenger seat. The injuries were life-threatening, including orthopedic trauma and a deep arm laceration that required emergency air transport to Tampa General Hospital. His medical expenses totaled over $300,000.
The at-fault driver only carried $25,000 in liability insurance—nowhere near enough to cover the costs. Thankfully, our client had $600,000 in uninsured motorist coverage. By utilizing his UM policy, we negotiated a settlement that helped cover his extensive medical bills and long-term care. Without this coverage, he could have faced financial ruin.
Why Cyclists in Florida, Oregon, and Across America Need UM Coverage
Florida: With one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the U.S., UM coverage is vital for cyclists navigating the state’s busy roads.
Oregon: While Oregon requires drivers to carry a minimum of $50,000 in coverage, that amount is often insufficient in cases of serious injuries.
Across America: No matter what state you are riding in, drivers often have inadequate coverage. Your own underinsured coverage protects you and also covers you as you travel.
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road. Injuries sustained in a bicycle crash can result in significant costs that far exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance limits. UM coverage bridges that gap, ensuring financial protection for accident victims.
Underinsured Motorist Insurance Facts for Cyclists
UM Coverage Travels With You: Whether you’re in a car, riding a bicycle, or walking, your uninsured motorist policy offers protection everywhere.
UM Insurance Covers Insufficient Insurance: If the at-fault driver’s policy doesn’t cover your expenses, UM insurance steps in to fill the gap.
Cycling Accidents Are Often Severe: Cyclists face unique dangers on the road, and injuries from accidents can be life-changing.
We Don’t Sell Uninsured Motorist Insurance
This is not an insurance sales pitch—but we are offering this information as free legal advice for cyclists. As legal representatives of cyclists and personal injury cases, we can assure you that UM insurance is a major benefit for accident victims in many of the cases we represent. Contact your current auto insurance agent to discuss whether UM is part of your insurance plan.
