Does Car Insurance Cover a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Bill Allen | October 29, 2024 | Bicycle Accidents

Does Car Insurance Cover a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Florida, you might be wondering whether car insurance will cover your medical bills and other expenses. Understanding how Florida’s insurance laws apply to bicycle accidents can help you navigate your options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Car Insurance Coverage for Bicycle Accidents in Florida

In Florida, car insurance policies can indeed cover injuries sustained in bicycle accidents under certain circumstances. Since Florida is a “no-fault” state, drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which can extend coverage to bicyclists injured in accidents involving motor vehicles.

Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Laws

Florida’s PIP insurance is designed to provide immediate benefits regardless of who was at fault for the accident. If you own a car and have PIP coverage, you can use your own insurance policy to cover at least some of your expenses after a bicycle accident.

Even if you don’t own a car or have your own PIP insurance, you may still be covered:

  • If a relative you live with has PIP coverage, you may be eligible under their policy.
  • If neither you nor a household member has PIP coverage, you can file a claim under the at-fault driver’s PIP insurance.

PIP insurance typically covers:

  • 80% of necessary medical expenses up to $10,000.
  • 60% of lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injuries.

It’s important to note that PIP may not cover all your expenses, especially in cases of serious injuries.

Filing a Lawsuit After a Bicycle Accident in Florida

While PIP provides immediate assistance, it might not be sufficient to cover all your losses. In Florida, you can step outside the no-fault system and file a personal injury lawsuit if your injuries meet certain thresholds or another exception applies.

To file a lawsuit, your injuries must involve any of the following:

  • Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function
  • Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability
  • Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
  • Death

Note that there are other exceptions to the no-fault rules as well. By filing a lawsuit, you can seek compensation beyond what PIP covers, including damages for pain and suffering and other non-economic losses.

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Taking the right steps after a bicycle accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

  • Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
  • Call the police and report the accident. A police report can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
  • Gather information from the scene, including the driver’s contact information, insurance details, and the contact information for any witnesses.
  • Photograph the accident scene, including your injuries, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any relevant road conditions.
  • Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
  • Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly.
  • Consult a bicycle accident attorney to understand your rights and legal options.

Following these steps can help protect your interests and strengthen your potential claim.

Contact Our Gainesville Bicycle Accident Law Firm in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville car accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We have three convenient locations in North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258