To many, riding down the highway on a motorcycle might seem like the most exciting way to commute, or a way to get from A to B. However, this excitement also comes with greater risk of being hurt in the unfortunate case of a motorcycle crash, as motorcycles do not provide the same physical protection as a vehicle can. Despite this, Florida only requires very minimal insurance; motorcycle owners simply need to show that they are financially responsible by providing proof of liability coverage, a financial responsibility certificate, or a self- insurance certificate from the Bureau of Financial Responsibility. So, do you need insurance to operate a motorcycle in Florida?
The short answer is: you should. Here’s why.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), approximately one in eight drivers do not maintain bodily injury coverage. Since in Florida it is not mandatory for drivers to have bodily injury coverage, if someone hits you with no bodily injury coverage or not enough to cover damages, you may be liable for it.
Motorcycle insurance is also helpful for hit and run collisions. Unfortunately, nearly 25 percent of all crashes are hit and run, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV). Behind Oklahoma, Florida is the state with the second largest population of uninsured drivers – nearly 24{7dff60334df83244b79b5471a8769907d27e202ac622cbe5ff51878e61595e62}. Having insurance can protect you if you are injured as a result of a collision while operating a motorcycle.
Do I need to wear a helmet if I have insurance?
Motorists over the age of 16 are not required to wear helmets by law, but it is good to consider wearing one to protect oneself from serious injury. Not only is wearing a helmet an important safety feature, but it will also reduce the hassle of trying to get coverage should you be harmed. In the event that you are in a crash and are hurt, insurance companies will fight to deny paying hospital fees if the rider did not have a helmet on because the motorcycle operator in some way could have prevented personal injury.
If you or someone you know was involved in a crash involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist, McIntyre Law Firm is here to help you through the legal process. Our attorneys have extensive experience in motorcycle crashes and various forms of personal injury. Call our trusted attorneys today at (844) 511-4800.
