Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in Miami?

Riders face a different set of rules after a crash in Florida. Motorcycles are not covered by the state's PIP requirement in the same way cars are, and insurers often try to blame the rider. An independent licensed Florida attorney can explain where your compensation may come from.

PIP and motorcycles

Florida's no-fault PIP requirement applies to four-wheel motor vehicles, so most motorcyclists do not have PIP on the bike. Depending on your situation, medical bills may be paid through health insurance, medical payments coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage, or a claim against the at-fault driver.

Florida's no-fault PIP requirement applies to four-wheel motor vehicles, so most motorcyclists do not have PIP on the bike.

Helmets and fault

Florida lets riders 21 and older go without a helmet if they carry at least $10,000 in medical benefits coverage. Not wearing a helmet does not by itself bar a claim, but an insurer may argue it made head injuries worse. Under Florida's modified comparative negligence rule, a person found more than 50% at fault generally cannot recover damages from others.

Common Miami motorcycle crash patterns

• Left-turning drivers who do not see an oncoming rider
• Lane changes on I-95 and the Palmetto Expressway
• Causeway crashes on the Rickenbacker, MacArthur and Julia Tuttle
• Doors opened into traffic on busy commercial streets
• Road debris and sand near the beaches

Related: Florida PIP Guide · What to Do After a Car Accident · Car accidents