Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Maryland due to its scenic views. Bicyclists may believe that riding a bike is safer than driving a car, but this is not true. Bicyclists are equally at risk for accidents and injuries. Unfortunately, this is due to negligence. In most cases, individuals are injured by the negligence of another person. It is common for individuals to wonder if their insurance covers bicycle accidents. Depending on the type of insurance plan an individual has, bicycle accidents may be covered. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact a dedicated Prince George’s County Personal Injury Attorney who can help you seek the justice you deserve. We are ready to fight on your behalf today.
Does insurance cover bicycle accidents?
Depending on the circumstances of the incident, bicycle accidents may be covered by insurance. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can happen for a number of reasons. Bicycles may collide with motor vehicles, other cyclists, pedestrians, or stationary objects. Typically, after a bicycle accident, people wonder if their damages will be covered by insurance. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, insurance may cover bicycle accidents. In Maryland, victims are restricted from recovering damage due to the contributory negligence rule. Under the contributory negligence rule, victims of bicycle accidents who are found even 1% responsible for the cause of an accident cannot be awarded financial compensation for their injuries. For instance, if a motorist was found to 99% at-fault for the cause of an accident and a bicyclist was found 1% negligent, they would be barred from recovering financial compensation for their losses. This harsh rule prevents individuals from recovering damages if they were responsible in any way for the cause of an accident.
What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)?
Regardless of the contributory negligence rule, bicyclists may use their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage to pay for damages. Individuals’ personal liability homeowner or renter’s insurance may cover bicycle accidents. In several states, individuals are required to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage to cover a portion of their medical expenses and lost wages in the event of a collision. Insurance companies are required to offer their policyholders this add-on. It is a no-fault type of auto insurance coverage that is available to bicyclists. However, in Maryland individuals can waive PIP if they choose. Individuals may be reimbursed through PIP claims for their damages. However, Maryland has a minimum requirement for PIP claims. In Maryland, the minimum requirement for PIP claims is $2,500. Maryland does not have restrictions on tort thresholds. It is critical for bicycle accident victims to consult a knowledgeable Prince George’s County personal injury attorney who can help with filing a PIP claim.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled and determined team members. Our attorneys are committed to helping their clients reach a favorable outcome. With years of experience, our firm can help you file a PIP claim.
