Motorcycle Accidents

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Report a Motorcycle Accident Claim With Legal Assistance

What Are the Motorcycle Insurance Laws in Florida?

Avid motorcyclists understand the joy and excitement that comes with riding a motorcycle on Florida roadways. However, it’s also important to understand the rules and responsibilities that come along with it. 

Unlike in other states, Florida insurance requirements for motorcycles differ from insurance requirements for other types of motor vehicles. Thus, it’s important to be familiar with your insurance obligations so that you can stay in compliance and better protect yourself on Florida roads. 

Not sure where to begin? Use our guide below to learn more about motorcycle insurance laws in Florida. When you have questions, give Lady Law Group a call to discuss your case with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney and see what we can do for you.

Motorcycle Insurance Laws in Florida: An Overview

Insurance requirements can be confusing and complicated. Nevertheless, it’s crucial that you have a basic understanding of your obligations. Here are some important Florida insurance laws to be aware of. 

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Motorcycle Insurance Laws in Florida: An Overview

Insurance requirements can be confusing and complicated. Nevertheless, it’s crucial that you have a basic understanding of your obligations. Here are some important Florida insurance laws to be aware of.

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Do Motorcyclists in Florida Have to Carry Personal Injury Protection Coverage?

In short, no. Motorcyclists are not required to carry what’s called personal injury protection (PIP) insurance coverage on Florida roads. 

PIP coverage, commonly referred to as “no-fault” insurance, requires the parties involved in an accident to first file any insurance claims with their own insurers under their own respective policies. This is true regardless of who was at fault.

Generally speaking, section 627.736 of the Florida statutes does require drivers of motor vehicles to carry PIP insurance coverage. However, this particular statute does not apply to motorcycles, so motorcyclists do not have to carry PIP coverage. 

Nevertheless, there still are certain insurance requirements to take note of that do apply to motorcyclists.

Motorcycle-Specific Insurance Requirements

Even though motorcyclists do not have to carry PIP coverage, they are subject to Florida’s financial responsibility law. The most common way to show financial responsibility is to purchase minimum of liability insurance of:

  • $10,000 for bodily injury to or death of one person in any one crash;
  • $20,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one crash; and
  • $10,000 for property damage in any one crash.

You do not have to demonstrate financial responsibility to get a motorcycle license. However, if you get into an accident, you will have to demonstrate that you can satisfy the financial responsibility law by:

  • Showing proof of your liability insurance;
  • Getting a self-insurance certificate from the Bureau of Motorist Compliance by posting a bond; or
  • Getting a self-insurance certificate by showing that you have sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of the accident.
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Do I Have to Wear a Helmet?

Under Florida law, any person under the age of 21 who operates or rides upon a motorcycle must wear protective headgear. However, riders 21 and over do not have to wear protective headgear if they are covered by an insurance policy providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries resulting from a crash. 

Despite this exception, it is still strongly recommended that you wear a helmet even if you are over the age of 21.

How Long Does a Motorcycle Insurance Claim Take?

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. The total amount of time it may take to resolve your motorcycle insurance claim will vary from case to case. 

In many cases, the insurer will make an offer for a covered claim within 30 days of the claim being filed. However, this initial offer will often be lower than what you might actually be entitled to receive. Thus, further negotiations may become necessary. 

While continued negotiations with an insurance company can feel daunting, the process can ultimately result in a larger payout. Thus, always be wary of accepting the first offer from an insurer. Speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your options before determining whether it’s fair and favorable to you.

Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney for My Motorcycle Insurance Claim?

In short, no, you do not need a motorcycle accident attorney for your motorcycle insurance claim. However, this doesn’t mean that having a lawyer in your corner will not benefit your case. 

In fact, having a legal professional to guide you through the insurance claims process is often a key factor in maximizing your potential recovery. A qualified attorney can help you: 

  • Review your insurance policy and the policies of opposing parties;
  • Analyze the facts of your case to help determine fault and your best arguments; and
  • Negotiate fair and reasonable settlements with opposing parties and their insurers.

At the end of the day,

Insurance companies do not have your best interests at heart. Rather, their goal is to pay out as little on your claim as possible. However, a lawyer can help you push back to help you get the best results possible.

Jennifer Pena

Lady Law Group: Your Go-to Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Even the most cautious and experienced motorcyclists can be involved in a crash on Florida roadways. 

A motorcycle accident can be traumatizing, and dealing with the aftermath can feel stressful and overwhelming. Between physical injuries, property damage, and correspondence with insurance companies, you may not know where to begin. However, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate this process alone. 

At the Lady Law Group, we’ve made it our mission to help personal injury victims through the insurance claims process. We know how frustrating and difficult it can be, but our team will be there with you at every step along the way. Contact us today to speak directly with a motorcycle accident lawyer and see what our team can do for you.