Unlike most states, Florida does not require motorcycle riders to purchase insurance. While you do not have to purchase a policy, it makes financial sense to do so.
With motorcycle insurance, you have protection to cover damages if you are involved in an accident. Additionally, it will help limit your financial liability. Insurance protects you if you travel to other states where it is required.
Insurance Requirements in Florida
All drivers of a vehicle with four wheels or more must purchase PIP (personal injury protection) coverage in Florida. If you file a claim within 14 days of your accident, it guarantees payment of the following:
- Up to $10,000 in emergencies
- Up to $2,500 for medical costs
While this is the case, PIP coverage is not offered to all motorcyclists. This is true even if they have it for another vehicle they own.
Injuries caused by motorcycle accidents are bound to be more severe, which means riders are more of a financial risk if they are involved in a serious accident.
Insurance Requirements for Registering a Motorcycle in Florida
Requirements for motorcycle insurance in Florida are based on the owner’s financial responsibility against liability. This means you do not need insurance to register your bike. However, if you cause an accident, you are financially liable.
You have three options to choose from when registering your motorcycle:
- Acquire the self-insurance certificate. Florida’s Bureau of Financial Responsibility provides this. It is possible to acquire this certificate if you can show evidence of a financial situation sufficient to handle an accident claim.
- Purchase liability insurance. You can purchase liability coverage from a licensed carrier. This is the easiest and most affordable option for getting coverage (in most cases).
- Acquire a Financial Responsibility Certificate. To receive this, you must post a surety bond with a company and deposit cash or securities with the FLHSMV.
Motorcycles and Florida No-Fault Insurance Coverage
Personal injury protection coverage is required in Florida because it is a no-fault state. This means you first turn to your insurance company for compensation after an accident. However, this only applies to vehicles with four or more wheels.
Florida’s no-fault laws do not apply to motorcycles.
If you ride a motorcycle, you must file a claim for compensation with the at-fault party’s insurance company. They are responsible for paying your medical costs, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. Also, you do not have to meet a threshold or prove your injuries’ severity (unlike those in other vehicles).
However, recovering compensation from the at-fault party is not always simple. In fact, Florida is often ranked at the top of the list when it comes to drivers without insurance on the roads.
You can purchase uninsured motorist coverage to help combat the potential issues caused by this situation. This will ensure you can pay your bills and accident-related expenses even if the at-fault driver is uninsured.
Insurance Proof Required When Riding a Motorcycle
After acquiring your motorcycle license, buying insurance from a provider, or getting the self-insurance certificate, the information will be in the DMV system.
Even with these records, it is required that motorcyclists carry proof with them while riding in Florida. The proof of insurance makes it easier and faster if you need to show an officer you are covered.
If you are in a situation where you need to exchange insurance information with another driver or prove that you have proper coverage, the following types of proof will likely be accepted:
- Insurance card
- Photo or digital copy of your insurance card
- Account information online
- Self-insurance certificate
Florida Bodily Injury Liability Requirements
While you can ride a motorcycle in Florida without insurance, you will not be absolved from financial responsibility if you are involved in an accident. The minimum liability coverage requirements for passenger vehicles are guidelines for motorcycle riders to determine how much coverage they need.
Even though this coverage is not required, it is recommended. Motorcycle accidents typically result in serious injuries and high costs.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Motorcyclist in Florida
As a motorcyclist, you need to know your rights and responsibilities. While you can opt out of insurance, you may still be liable if you cause an accident.
If you are involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our legal team at Zimmet & Zimmet is ready to help. The first step is to call our office to schedule a free consultation.
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