Georgia, like most states, requires an active insurance policy to operate motorcycles. This includes bodily injury liability and property damage policies. However, this only covers injuries or damage the rider causes, not losses the rider suffers. This does not mean that motorcycle riders have nowhere to turn for their own damages after an accident. There are several types of optional motorcycle insurance coverage in Georgia:
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Medical payments
- Guest passenger coverage
- Collision coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- Total loss coverage
- Accessories coverage
What Policies Cover My Injuries?
There are two policies that cover any injuries you suffered in a motorcycle accident:
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage is a valuable protection most people do not realize is available. In fact, because insurance customers must deny UM/UIM coverage in writing, many riders have the coverage without realizing it.
There are three situations in which UM/UIM covers you after a motorcycle accident:
- The negligent party was uninsured.
- A driver hit you and fled the scene (known as a hit and run accident).
- The negligent party’s insurance policy does not cover the entirety of your damages.
Your UM/UIM coverage limits often mirror your bodily injury liability policy (i.e., if you have $25,000 per person for your liability coverage, you will have $25,000 available for your accident). However, there are different options available. Sheryl Burke worked as an insurance adjuster, so she understands the intricacies of insurance policies. We can help you determine what your UM/UIM policy covers.
Medical Payments Coverage
Medical payments coverage pays medical bills for you and any passengers involved in the accident. Medical payments coverage starts at a $1,000 minimum limit. Your medical payments coverage policy will cover your injuries regardless of whether you caused the accident.
Note: There is also a policy available to cover any injuries your passenger suffers. Guest passenger coverage provides additional coverage to a passenger riding with you at the time of your accident. It is important to note that in most cases, unlike medical payments coverage, this policy will only cover your passenger if you caused the accident.
What Policies Cover My Property Damage?
There are several policies available to cover property damage to your bike:
Collision Coverage
Collision protection offers coverage for any type of accident. This can involve:
- An accident with another vehicle
- An accident with a stationary object, such as a pole
- A single-bike accident
Once you pay your deductible, your policy will cover any property damage up to your policy limit.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage protects you in the event your motorcycle is involved in an “Act of God” (i.e., an event other than a collision). These events include theft, fires, vandalism, hail, and more.
Total Loss Coverage
Total loss coverage kicks in when you are involved in catastrophic Georgia motorcycle accidents. Total loss coverage reimburses you when the cost of repairing your motorcycle outpaces its worth.
Accessories Coverage
Most motorcyclists have a variety of accessories on their bikes when traveling. Accessory coverage reimburses for any losses and damages to these items. These accessories can include helmets, seats, saddlebags, and more.
Call an Atlanta Motorcycle Attorney
Motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic, traumatic events. And even if you purchase optional motorcycle insurance coverages, it is possible you could require help to collect the damages you deserve.
With more than 20 years of personal injury claim experience, Sheryl Burke has represented countless motorcycle accident victims. And because she also worked at an insurance company, she knows and understands any loopholes or complex language these policies use.
If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident, please feel free to reach out to us at 404-842-7838 to determine your options for compensation. Our consultations are free, so there is no risk and no commitment.