Insurance Coverage for San Diego Cyclists
As more San Diego residents engage in cycling for fitness, pleasure or commuting, the issue of insurance for cyclists becomes even more prominent. Bicycle insurance has not gained traction in the U.S., but cyclists may take advantage of other options to limit their exposure to financial risks in the form of uninsured motorists (UM) underinsured motorists (UIM) or potential liability for accidents.
San Diego Bicycling Insurance Dilemma
California laws require all motorists to demonstrate “financial responsibility.” Most drivers meet this requirement by purchasing the minimum liability insurance coverage required by the regulation — 15,000/30,000/5,000. This means the insured has bodily injury liability protection of $15,000 per individual per accident, $30,000 total bodily injury for more than one person per accident and $5,000 for property damage. This amount of coverage works well for minor San Diego bike accident claims that fall within the policy limits.
However, a serious injury can result in medical costs well in excess of the limits of the motorist’s policy. The injured cyclist becomes liable for the extra expenses. A cyclist may file a lawsuit against the motorist to recover the money, but many motorists may have few or no assets to attach. In addition, many uninsured drivers operate vehicles.
Cyclist Insurance Solutions
One option that may provide a cyclist financial relief when involved in a San Diego bike accident entails taking advantage of the uninsured/underinsured provision of his vehicle insurance policy. The cyclist can pay for the maximum amount of UM/UIM coverage, which applies if you are injured when driving, jogging or biking. California insurance code regulations require insurance carriers to extend the coverage to these activities, if you are injured by an uninsured or under insured motorist.
A biker who does not own an automobile may depend on their health insurance policy. Even a cyclist with excellent bike riding skills, and a good grasp of bicycle safety techniques may be at fault for a San Diego cycling accident. The personal liability and personal property coverage of most renters or homeowners policies may attempt to exclude these types of claims, so it is important to get good advice from an experienced attorney.
San Diego bike accident attorney Frederick M. Dudek, a bicycle commuter, with over 30 years of cycling experience in San Diego and throughout California, offers this resource to you. If you suffered injury or property damage in a cycling accident due to a negligent motorist, contact Attorney Dudek for a free no cost obligation to discuss your case.