Does Motorcycle Accident Law Differ from Car Crash Statutes?
There are plenty of differences between cars and motorcycles. This self-evident statement also applies to Florida state law. Since there are some different laws for cars and motorcycles, it’s important that you seek help from a trusted motorcycle accident attorney who can note these legal distinctions.
The team at Chanfrau & Chanfrau has helped people all over Daytona Beach and Palm Coast, FL, following injury accidents. Below we’ll note a key difference between cars and motorcycles in Florida law, and we’ll also point out some other considerations when it comes to collision cases.
The Main Difference: Personal Injury Protection Insurance
Florida is a no-fault car insurance state. That means all drivers of cars must have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This helps cover medical bills, lost wages, and other losses after a car accident.
While this PIP requirement applies to people driving cars, there is no such requirement for motorcyclists.
This is partly due to a unique definition of motor vehicles for insurance purposes in Florida: in the state, motor vehicles are defined as having four or more wheels.
What This Means for Motorcyclists and Other Accident Victims
If you are a motorcyclist and get into a crash, you cannot rely on PIP coverage to address your financial losses. Instead, you will need to sue the liable party to seek compensation for the effects of the motorcycle crash.
Medical Coverage and Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Florida
In addition to the PIP coverage matter, Florida also has unique laws when it comes to wearing helmets.
A motorcyclist is not required to wear a helmet on their motorcycle if they are at least 21 years old and have minimum medical insurance coverage of $10,000.
Other Matters to Consider in Car and Motorcycle Accidents
There are some other worthwhile differences to consider when it comes to car crashes and motorcycle wrecks.
Differences in Safety Features
Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to catastrophic injuries since they are not as protected from harm. Drivers of cars and other motor vehicles have seatbelts, airbags, and numerous other safety features that can help minimize the severity of injuries sustained.
Effects of Road and Weather Conditions
Bad weather and poor road conditions can both hinder the ability to operate a vehicle properly. These dangers are heightened with motorcycles simply given the nature of these vehicles.
The Perception of Motorcyclists
There may be negative perceptions of motorcyclists as reckless drivers or risk-takers. Whether true or false as it pertains to you as a motorcyclist, it’s important to acknowledge this stigma as you pursue legal action.
Why You Need an Auto Accident Lawyer
Whether you are seeking legal representation after a car crash or a motorcycle accident, it helps to have a skilled lawyer on your side. A personal injury attorney or wrongful death lawyer can review the circumstances of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Our law firm has a long history in the region and is proud to serve Volusia County, Flagler County, and communities along Florida’s Atlantic coastline.
Contact Our Auto Collision Attorneys About Your Case
Were you in a car or motorcycle crash? Our injury accident attorneys can help. Chanfrau & Chanfrau has a long history of assisting injury victims and surviving loved ones in their time of legal need. To set up a consultation, contact our east-central Florida law firm. You can meet with us at our office in Daytona Beach or Palm Coast.