Motorcycle Riders NEED Great Insurance Coverage
Being a “protected rider” means knowing what your rights as a motorcyclist are and what avenues of recourse are available to you if you get injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver. Knowledge is power, and clearly understanding your rights might be the key to receiving the compensation you need to pay bills while you recover from your injuries. Keep reading for some important information regarding motorcycle insurance law from the Colorado Springs motorcycle accident lawyers at Rector Stuzynski Law Firm.
Important Facts Most Motorcycle Riders Don’t Know About Their Insurance
Even experienced riders don’t always know all the ins and outs of their insurance policy, leaving them with subpar coverage on their motorcycle, gear, injuries, repairs and more. Below we will explain how you can take advantage of certain aspects of your policy to make sure you are completely covered no matter what happens on the road.
Motorcycle Insurance Can Cover Your Gear And Even Dirtbikes
When you go down on your motorcycle, your riding gear is going to take a serious beating from road rash at high speeds. As fellow riders ourselves, we know how expensive it can be to replace your helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, boots, saddlebags and more. With proper insurance coverage, these items can be replaced by the insurance company under your normal claim, so make sure to ask about optional equipment coverage when setting up your policy.
If you have a dirtbike, ATV, UTV, moped, or scooter, ask your insurance provider about adding those to your policy as well. This way you will not be stuck paying out of pocket for a replacement if yours gets stolen or damaged.
Combine Policies And Take Safety Courses To Lower Your Costs
Many insurance companies offer discounts when you bundle multiple policies together, such as homeowners or renters insurance, car insurance, and RV insurance. Always take advantage of discounts when they are available.
Some insurers will also give you a discount for completing a rider safety course or participating in rider safety groups. These courses teach you a lot about your motorcycle, road conditions, hazardous weather riding, and safe operation techniques. Even experienced riders often pick up new knowledge that makes them safer on the road. Most programs cost a few hundred dollars or less and provide a document that proves your rider training for life, saving you money on premiums year after year.
Roadside Assistance Can Be Covered By Insurance
On long trips, running out of gas or getting a flat tire can turn into an expensive and time-consuming headache. Tow trucks typically charge $100 or more just to come out to your location, and additional services can add up fast. If this is a concern for you, consider adding roadside assistance coverage to your policy. Some policies also offer rental coverage while your motorcycle is being repaired, which is worth looking into if you rely on your bike as a primary form of transportation.
Colorado Insurance Requirements For Motorcycles
By state law, Colorado motorcyclists must carry the following minimum amounts of liability insurance:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $15,000 per accident for property damage
Be sure to compare quotes from multiple carriers before deciding on a policy, as rates can vary significantly. Keep in mind that these are minimums and may not be enough to fully cover the costs of a serious accident.
One important note: although Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage is not always proactively offered to motorcyclists by their insurance companies, it is available to motorcyclists and we highly recommend carrying it. Do not settle for just the minimum coverage available when MedPay can make a real difference in your ability to get prompt medical care after a crash.
How Underinsured Motorcycle Coverage Works
If you have underinsured motorist coverage on your policy, it eliminates the gap between what an at-fault driver can pay and the total amount you owe as a result of the accident. Without this protection, you could be stuck paying out of pocket for expenses that exceed what the other driver’s policy covers. You could pursue a lawsuit against the other driver, but collecting from a successful judgment can be difficult and time-consuming, and legal action can drain your time and energy during an already difficult recovery.
Most motorcycle insurers split their underinsured coverage into two categories:
- Bodily Injury pays for your hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription drugs, physical therapy, home health care, lost wages, and related expenses.
- Property Damage covers the cost to repair or replace your motorcycle and other property.
As for how much underinsured protection you need, you should at minimum meet your state’s requirements, but we strongly recommend carrying more than the minimum. The state minimums are inadequate in most serious accident scenarios. Consult with an insurance agent or qualified financial professional to determine the right coverage level for your situation. The good news is that relatively speaking, underinsured motorist coverage is one of the more affordable options available and well worth the added cost.
Contact Our Colorado Springs Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Our office is committed to the motorcycle riding community and dedicated to providing riders with the best legal services available. Our attorneys are natives of Colorado with over 75 years of combined experience dealing with insurance companies and representing victims of motorcycle accidents across the state.
After an accident, the other driver’s insurance company will have a team of lawyers, adjusters, and specialists whose sole job is to minimize any payout to injured parties. That is exactly why it is so important to call a qualified attorney promptly to work on your behalf. Rely on Rector Stuzynski Law Firm’s experience to protect you and your rights. Call us anytime at (719) 578-1106 for a free consultation and let us handle the insurance battle while you focus on your recovery.
