If you have been considering getting a motorcycle in Pennsylvania, hoping for warm weather and open roads, you may have some questions, like “do you need motorcycle insurance or will auto insurance cover a crash?” If this is your first motorcycle, the answer may surprise you.
In Pennsylvania you need a policy with three types of coverage for your motorcycle:
Bodily Injury Liability
This insurance covers injury to others that you have caused in a collision. You need to be determined to be at fault for this coverage to come into play. The minimum amount in Pennsylvania is $15,000, but you can always purchase more. In the event of a serious crash, $15,000 does not go very far, especially if there are severe injuries involved.
Property Damage Liability
This one seems obvious from the name – it’s coverage for property damage you might cause to another’s vehicle or bike if you are at fault in the collision. The state minimum for property damage liability coverage is $5,000. Of course you can always add more coverage, because in a serious collision, most property damage will exceed this amount.
Pedestrian
Pedestrian First Party Benefits cover medical treatment to a pedestrian if you strike and injure one while riding. This is a necessary and required portion of your motorcycle policy in Pennsylvania. But wait, didn’t we already discuss bodily injury liability? Why do you also need Pedestrian coverage? Bodily injury liability coverage only comes into play if you are at fault, whereas the first party benefits will cover the pedestrian for medical treatment automatically.
What Else Do You Need to Ride in Pennsylvania?
Of course you need a motorcycle license. It is also a good idea to take a motorcycle safety course, and depending on your carrier it may help you get a reduced rate. Learn more through Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Safety Program.
What if I was Injured in a Collision?
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, either with another motorcycle, a vehicle, or a pedestrian, it is important that you report the collision to your insurance. It is also important that you protect your interests by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney. Insurance companies have trained agents who know how to watch out for the company’s bottom line. Who is looking out for your interests after you have been injured in a crash?
Graham & Mauer has attorneys who are experienced in personal injury matters including motorcycle crash cases. If you would like a free consultation, call today at 610-933-3333 or send us a message today.
