When it comes to auto accident injuries, motorcyclists are more likely to suffer serious injuries. Even the most careful motorcyclists cannot always guard against the negligence of other drivers. This is why motorcyclists need to carry adequate insurance.
Do you have enough coverage?
Every state sets minimum requirements known as Compulsory Coverage. Let’s review Compulsory Coverage in Massachusetts and why it may not be enough for motorcyclists.
Massachusetts motorcyclists are required to have the following insurance minimums:
Bodily injury to others: $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident
Bodily injury caused by an uninsured motorist: $20,000 per person, $40,000 per accident
Damage to someone else’s property: $5,000 for property damage (https://www.candsins.com/blog/massachusetts-motorcycle-insurance-requirements/)
You may have noticed the premiums for motorcycle insurance are significantly less than for automobiles. But have you ever questioned why?
Massachusetts motorcycle insurance policies exclude Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which is compulsory for other motor vehicle owners. Regardless of fault, PIP provides coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and even funeral costs for both drivers and passengers.
Plans that offer motorcycle PIP coverage fail to make it clear that this coverage only protects pedestrians injured by a motorcycle accident, which is relatively rare. This lack of PIP coverage plays a significant role as to why insurance rates are lower for motorcyclists.
Unfortunately, too many motorcyclists don’t realize the gap in coverage until after an accident. And because PIP isn’t offered for Massachusetts motorcyclists, you may mistakenly think nothing can be done to proactively address this.
The good news is, you do have options. Massachusetts motorcyclists can purchase the following additional coverage:
- Medical Payments
- Uninsured Auto
- Underinsured Coverage
- Bodily Injury
- Property Damage
- Collision Comprehensive
Medical Payments Coverage is strongly recommended for motorcyclists interested in having additional personal injury coverage for expenses not covered by other auto insurance or health insurance policies. This type of coverage can also be used to financially protect passengers in the event of a motorcycle accident.
More often than you’d think, the other driver is found at fault for an accident but has no insurance, even though it is required by law. Having Uninsured Auto and Underinsured Coverage will ensure your needs for medical bill compensation, lost wages, and pain and suffering are covered.
Additionally, in the event you are found responsible for an accident, Bodily Injury Coverage will protect you from a personal injury claim.
When it comes to coverage, the minimum requirements are rarely enough to cover motorcycle accident injuries. The severity of injuries experienced by motorcyclists often leads to a long recovery. Having adequate insurance and the right attorney at your side following an accident can be the assurance you need to get the care you deserve.
In the event you have been injured in an automobile accident, contact our office to discuss the merits of your personal injury case.
