If you ride a motorcycle in Altoona, it is important to understand Pennsylvania’s insurance requirements and how they can impact you in the event of an accident. Our seasoned motorcycle crash attorneys are familiar with the laws and how they may affect your case. Learn more about motorcycle insurance claims in Altoona by reaching out to one of our knowledgeable legal professionals.
In Pennsylvania, motorcycle operators are required to have insurance, just like any other vehicle driver. The minimum liability coverage required is $15,000, which applies if the operator injures someone else. If the operator causes damages due to their own negligence, there must be at least $15,000 available per person or $30,000 in total to pay the claim. However, this amount is often not sufficient to cover even minor claims. In these circumstances, it is important to have enough underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage (UIM or UM) coverage to provide additional compensation if the at-fault driver has no insurance or minimal coverage. If you have UM or UIM coverage, you can make a claim against your own insurance policy. Failure to have the minimum liability insurance can result in criminal citations, charges, and sanctions.
In most cases, the only way to recover damages is through an insurance policy. Many individuals in Pennsylvania are considered “judgment-proof,” meaning that if they are found liable for a collision and damages, collecting a judgment against them is often challenging or sometimes impossible. This is because most people do not have assets that can be seized or executed after obtaining a judgment.
If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, the potential sources of recovery are limited. Typically, an insurance policy is the only source of funds available to pay a claim. For instance, if the at-fault driver was driving without insurance, the victim could seek an uninsured motorist claim against their own policy. However, many motorcycle policies do not have this type of coverage as it can be expensive.
You should contact a local attorney to discuss your legal options if you were injured in a motorcycle collision with an uninsured driver. An Altoona motorcycle crash lawyer can help you determine the best course of action to recover damages and receive compensation for your injuries, whether through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
It is critical for an injured motorcyclist not to communicate with the other motorist’s insurance adjuster or company after a wreck. The first step an attorney will take is to contact the insurance company to advise them of representation, preventing them from directly contacting the victim. This will stop harassing phone calls and prevent potential harm to the case.
Your dedicated legal professional will handle all communication with the other party’s insurance company on your behalf following a motorcycle accident in Altoona.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should reach out to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal options for recovery. Call a qualified attorney at Marcus & Mack today to schedule an initial consultation.
