Florida’s roads accommodate a diverse array of vehicles, from cars to motorcycles, each presenting its own hazards and insurance needs. While auto insurance is mandatory for car and truck drivers, motorcycle riders aren’t bound by the same requirements. These differences, among others, can be complex to navigate, especially in the wake of an accident. If you have been injured in a car or motorcycle accident, an experienced attorney can help you understand Florida’s insurance laws and fight for a favorable outcome on your behalf.
At Marsalisi Law, our accomplished attorney, Frank P. Marsalisi, understands the unique intricacies of Florida’s car and motorcycle accident laws and can apply his experience and skills to your case. He is fluent in both English and Spanish and personalizes his approach to every case. When you partner with our firm, you can have peace of mind your case will be handled from consultation to completion by a seasoned legal professional.
Florida’s Car Insurance Laws
Under Florida law, car owners are required to carry car insurance, which includes a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage.
Because Florida is a no-fault state, PIP insurance covers your economic damages, regardless of fault. However, it has limits. It covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages. In fatal accidents, families may be eligible for $5,000 in death benefits.
PDL coverage, on the other hand, compensates accident victims for their property damage, but the victim must file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Florida’s Motorcycle Insurance Laws
Despite both being motor vehicles, cars and motorcycles are governed by different insurance laws in Florida. An essential difference is that motorcycle riders are not explicitly mandated to carry insurance. Instead, they can opt for a self-insurance certificate from the Bureau of Financial Responsibility, provided they can demonstrate adequate financial capacity to cover potential losses in case of an accident. Otherwise, purchasing coverage from an insurance company becomes the most common way to demonstrate financial responsibility. This typically includes $10,000 in bodily injury coverage for one person, $20,000 in bodily injury coverage for two people, and $10,000 in property damage coverage per crash. Florida also requires minimum medical coverage of $10,000 in medical benefits protection for riders 21 and older who do not wear a helmet. The minimum medical benefits coverage can be met with a health insurance plan and/or motorcycle insurance policy.
Notably, motorcycle accidents fall outside Florida’s no-fault insurance laws. In other words, if you are injured while riding a motorcycle, you must pursue monetary compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. These claims can be challenging to pursue on your own, making it essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. A knowledgeable attorney can assist in filing your claim, advocating for your rights, and pursuing the rightful compensation you deserve.
Discuss Your Case With a Seasoned Attorney at Marsalisi Law
If you were injured in an accident, it is critical to seek justice for your injuries and other losses. However, insurance claims can be difficult to pursue independently, especially as you heal from your injuries. At Marsalisi Law, our talented attorney, Frank P. Marsalisi, is dedicated to helping his clients seek justice while they focus on their healing and recovery. He has recovered thousands in monetary compensation for his clients and is here to fight for you.
To schedule a free consultation, call us at (727) 800-5052 or complete our contact form. Marsalisi Law is where law gets personal!
