Does Auto Insurance Cover Bicycle Accidents in Florida?

In Florida, auto insurance generally covers bicycle accidents under certain conditions. The state's laws and insurance regulations provide avenues for compensation if a bicyclist is injured in an accident with a motor vehicle. However, the specifics can vary based on the type of insurance coverage and the circumstances of the accident.

Because insurance coverage can be confusing for injured cyclists, you should always seek help from a Florida bicycle accident attorney if you need to file a claim.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage

Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP coverage is designed to provide immediate medical and wage loss benefits to the policyholder, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. This coverage extends to cyclists, pedestrians, and passengers involved in motor vehicle accidents.

If a car hits a bicyclist, the cyclist may be eligible to make a PIP claim against the driver's insurance policy, regardless of fault. Further, if the cyclist has their own PIP coverage, it can provide coverage, even if a driver was to blame. PIP benefits typically cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages for the injured party, but they cover less than a third-party liability claim might.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is another critical component of auto insurance in Florida. Liability coverage helps pay for damages if the insured driver is found to be at fault in an accident. If a car hits a bicyclist, the liability coverage of the at-fault driver's insurance policy may compensate the injured cyclist for serious injuries.

Liability insurance may cover the bicyclist's medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Florida law requires drivers to have a minimum amount of liability coverage, but some drivers may have additional coverage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is an optional but valuable component of auto insurance in Florida. This coverage comes into play when an at-fault driver either does not have insurance or does not have sufficient coverage to fully compensate the injured party.

If a bicyclist is hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, they may be able to file a claim against their own UM/UIM coverage. This coverage can help bridge the gap when the at-fault driver's insurance is inadequate to cover the damages.

Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and determining liability in bicycle accidents can be challenging. Consulting with an attorney experienced in handling bicycle accident claims is always advisable.

Consult a Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer Immediately

At Tragos, Sartes & Tragos, our bike accident attorneys can help assess the details of your accident, guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue legal action to ensure fair compensation.

Insurance coverage following any traffic accident in Florida can be complicated. Seeking legal advice is crucial to understanding the full auto insurance available following an accident and ensuring that you receive the appropriate compensation for your damages.