Many riders assume that wearing a helmet is enough to keep them safe. While helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries, they’re not foolproof. That’s why Louisiana law—specifically Revised Statute 32:190—requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a safety helmet properly secured with a chin strap.
Still, helmets only address part of the risk. The reality is that no matter how cautious you are, you can’t control the actions of other drivers. That’s why motorcycle insurance is one of the best protections you can have. If you’re planning to get your motorcycle license, making sure you’re properly insured should be at the top of your checklist.
The Best Protection Against Accidents Is Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance can cover a lot of subsequent costs after an accident. Depending on the coverage you choose, your expenses could be covered in these areas.
Louisiana Motorcycle Insurance Minimums
Louisiana motorcycle insurance regulations require that owners have a liability policy with minimum coverage amounts equal to those below:
- $15,000 for death or bodily injury to one person.
- $30,000 for death or bodily injury to two or more persons.
- $25,000 for damage or destruction of property.
Liability insurance just takes care of the injuries and damages of a third party who was injured during an accident that you caused. This means that your injuries or damages to your motorcycle would not be covered.
Comprehensive Coverage and Personal Injury Protection
If you get optional comprehensive and personal injury protection (PIP) on top of general liability, you know you’re covered in every way in the case of an accident.
Medical Bills
Your injuries, as well as others’ injuries for a multiple-vehicle crash, will be covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance. Depending on the injuries you suffer, coverage may not be 100%. However, it can still significantly ease your financial woes while recovering.
Underinsured Motorists
If other motorists involved in the accident are at fault and they don’t have adequate insurance to cover your expenses, getting additional underinsured motorist insurance may cover them. This also applies to uninsured motorists.
Repair or Replacement Costs
The expenses related to fixing the damage to your motorcycle will be covered. If it’s unfixable, replacement is covered as well. The damage doesn’t have to be accident-related. Vandalism is addressed by this coverage, as well as theft.
Comprehensive Coverage
As mentioned, accidents and theft aren’t the only causes for damage or loss. Another cause of damage could be animals, whether they’re domestic or wild. The weather could be a factor too, like heavy rains or snow.
The Importance of a Louisiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle insurance is necessary, but not enough. If you get involved in an accident and it’s not your fault, you may be entitled to a settlement. To get that, you must have a good motorcycle accident lawyer in Louisiana fighting for your case. They can help determine liability to clearly establish who’s at fault. Otherwise, you can’t make a claim.
Next, the extent of your injuries should be assessed so that you get a fair payout. And of course, your lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies to make them give the highest possible settlement to you.
For a Louisiana motorcycle accident lawyer you can rely on, contact Mike Brandner Law for a free consultation . Our offices are open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., but we’re available to take your call 24/7. You can also go to our site and LiveChat with us any time.