Under Pennsylvania law, motorcycle riders must obtain insurance for their motorcycles prior to riding them. There are different types of coverage. The three most important are:
1. Bodily injury coverage
This kind of coverage protects a rider from his or her own negligence. If a rider causes an accident and injury to another person, bodily injury coverage will protect the rider up to the amount purchased ($15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident are the state minimums in Pennsylvania). After the amount is exhausted, the rider’s personal assets may be at risk. Selecting higher coverage is advisable, depending on a rider’s financial situation.
2. UIM/UM coverage
Underinsured (UIM) and uninsured (UM) coverage protect a rider from other people’s negligence. If a driver hits a rider who has UIM/UM insurance, the rider can make UIM/UM claims against his or her insurance company for additional benefits. UIM/UM coverage is like extra insurance. Read more about UIM/UM insurance coverage for motorcycles in Pennsylvania here.
3. Property damage coverage
Pennsylvania law requires a minimum of $5,000 of property damage coverage for Pennsylvania cars and motorcycles alike. This kind of coverage works on a fault based basis, much like bodily injury coverage.
Medical benefits, also known as personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, are not available under motorcycle insurance policies issued in Pennsylvania. So, a rider who is injured in a motorcycle accident will need to use private health insurance to pay for medical bills. Learn more about making an insurance claim for medical benefits after a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania.
Related articles:
- Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accidents – Steps to Take After an Accident
- Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits – Recovering Pain and Suffering Damages
Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Schwartz & Blackman has successfully handled many motorcycle accident cases and offers free consultations. 215.925.4451
*This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is important to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.