Helmets and Insurance: Making Sure Motorcycle Riders are Protected

It is not reckless driving, but rather lack of attention by other drivers, that causes most motorcycle accidents. This usually occurs when a car or truck moves into the biker's lane. It is often claimed by the driver of a car or truck involved in a motorcycle crash that the motorcycle was in his blind spot, so he could not see it. However, it is a driver's responsibility remain aware of his surroundings, so this is a poor defense. Very serious accidents can happen to motorcycle riders when other drivers are on the road don't pay attention. It is not uncommon for a motorcycle rider to be thrown from his motorcycle, breaking arms or legs in the process. Even worse are accidents involving semi trucks. These wrecks often result in brain and head injuries.

One area of weakness that an accident lawyer will examine is how crashworthy the rider's helmet is. It is not unusual for a motorcycle rider's helmet to play a part in his injuries. A faulty helmet may result in a products liability claim against its manufacturer. Obviously, the construction of the helmet is a moot point if the rider was not wearing one. Helmets should always be worn.

It takes a lot more than a helmet to give a rider all the protection he needs. From a medical standpoint, typical full coverage insurance is insufficient to make sure you can cover your medical expenses. It generally means you only have liability and property damage coverage. The problem arises when the driver of the vehicle that strikes the motorcycle rider does not have sufficient insurance coverage to pay for the rider's hospital bills.

Motorcycle riders need to take steps to make sure they are fully protected. You should have all three of the following types of insurance: uninsured (UM), underinsured (UIM) and medical payments coverage. These three types of insurance will greatly increase the chance that your medical expenses will be fully paid in the event of an accident, so that you don't find yourself both injured and bankrupt. These types of insurance are often not even mentioned by insurance agents, so you will have to ask. These insurance types are affordable, so it won't break the bank to get yourself well-covered.

St. Louis-based Josh Myers Law is a law firm specializing in personal injury cases, such as those involving injured motorcycle riders. If you are injured in an accident, don't let yourself be at the mercy of the insurance companies! Talk to a St. Louis personal injury lawyer that has the specialized training to handle cases involving serious injury. Visit www.joshmyerslaw.com to arrange a free consultation.