Article: Uninsured Motorist Accidents

Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer for Uninsured Motorist Accidents

All Arizona motorists are required by state law to carry automobile liability insurance. This law ensures that, if the motorist causes an accident, the victims of the accident can receive compensation for their damages, including property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, without having to file a claim with their own insurance company. Under Arizona law, the minimum amount of insurance needed is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for personal injury, and $10,000 for property damage.

Despite this law, many people continue to drive or ride motorcycles without insurance. It is estimated that 14% of all drivers in the US do not carry any insurance. If you are struck by one of these drivers while riding your motorcycle in Arizona, you may be stuck holding the bag for your property damage and injuries. Considering the fact that injuries in motorcycle accidents are typically more severe than those in passenger car accidents, the cost of your accident could be financially devastating.

If you have been struck by an uninsured motorist on your motorcycle in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe or elsewhere in Maricopa County, you should contact an Arizona motorcycle lawyer. An experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney can help you review your case and decide the best course of action for you to recover your compensation for your damages.

Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage

One of the best ways to protect yourself against uninsured motorists is to add uninsured motorist coverage to your motorcycle insurance policy. Unfortunately, many motorcyclists waive this optional insurance, thinking they do not need it since everyone in Arizona is required by law to have insurance. This can be a costly mistake.

Commonly referred to as uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, this optional coverage protects you in the event that you are struck by an uninsured motorist. With UM/UIM coverage, you choose a set amount of coverage, and your insurance will cover your property damage and medical bills that the other party is responsible for up to that amount.

For example, if you take out an uninsured motorist policy with a maximum of $20,000, and are then struck by an uninsured motorist who causes $10,000 worth of medical bills, you would be completely covered by your UM insurance.

Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Unfortunately, even if you have uninsured motorist coverage, dealing with your insurance company after an accident can be a difficult process. Many people are reluctant to file a claim with their insurance company when the accident is not their fault because they are afraid the insurance company will raise their rates.

You should contact an Arizona motorcycle attorney before filing an uninsured motorist claim to ensure that you fully understand your coverage and that your insurance company will work to help you.

Pursuing Action Without Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage and are in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, you still have recourse to avoid being stuck footing the bill for your injuries and property damage. Contact an Arizona motorcycle lawyer to discuss the possibility of pursuing legal action to receive compensation from the responsible driver.

Contact an Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer

If you have been struck by an uninsured motorist while riding a motorcycle in Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale or elsewhere in Maricopa County, it is recommended that you contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. For more information on motorcycle accidents in Arizona, please visit http://www.azmotorcycleaccidentlawyer.com/