What Happens in Ohio if You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver on Your Motorcycle?
Motorcycle accidents are traumatic, often life-altering events. When a negligent uninsured driver causes the accident, the situation can become even more overwhelming and stressful. While auto insurance is required for all drivers in Ohio, an unfortunate number of people still get behind the wheel without any coverage, making it much more complicated—but not impossible—for injured parties to recover compensation when they cause an accident.
If you’re facing injuries and financial damage after a motorcycle accident caused by an uninsured driver, Flickinger Legal Group is here to help. Take a look at what your options are and how experienced legal representation can aid you in recovering the compensation you deserve.
What are My Options After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Ohio?
You’re not totally out of luck after a motorcycle accident caused by an uninsured driver. There are a few potential options available to you, including:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
The best option available is utilizing the uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto insurance policy—if you have it. Uninsured motorist coverage is optional in Ohio, so unless you opted to purchase this coverage, you won’t have it. However, if you do, then you may be covered for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
You’ll file your uninsured motorist claim through your insurance company, not the at-fault driver’s, but it’s important to remember that no insurer is your friend. They will investigate the accident in an attempt to challenge your claim and minimize your payout. That’s why having experienced legal representation is crucial.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In some cases, the other driver may have insurance, but the compensation you’re owed exceeds their policy limits.
Minimum liability insurance coverage in Ohio consists of:
- $25,000 for injury or death to one person
- $50,000 for injury or death to two or more people
- $25,000 for property damage
This is the legal minimum insurance a driver is allowed to carry. If the at-fault party’s policy looks like this, and your injuries total $50,000, you’ll only be receiving half the money you’re owed at best. When that’s the case, your underinsured motorist coverage can help fill that gap. However, underinsured motorist coverage is also optional in Ohio, so unless you purchased this coverage, your policy won’t contain it.
Filing a Lawsuit Against the Driver
You also have the option of suing the uninsured driver directly. However, it’s essential to remember that most uninsured drivers probably lack the resources to provide you with your rightful compensation, which is why they were uninsured in the first place. You might be awarded the compensation, but collecting it can be difficult. Still, this option is at least worth exploring with your attorney to determine whether it’s worthwhile.
How an Ohio Lawyer Can Help You Deal with an Uninsured Driver
Recovering your rightful compensation in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver can be frustrating and time-consuming, but an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can make it much easier on you. Your attorney can help by:
- Reviewing Your Insurance Policy: Don’t make any assumptions about your insurance coverage until you’ve spoken with an attorney. They can carefully review your policy to determine if any options are available for seeking compensation.
- Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will investigate the accident and gather police reports, surveillance footage, witness testimony, photos and videos from the scene, medical and financial records, and expert testimony to prove your claim.
- Negotiating and Litigating: Insurance companies will protect their profits by attempting to weaken or deny your claim. Your attorney will counter their tactics and advocate aggressively for you at the negotiating table. If they refuse a fair settlement, your attorney will take your claim to court.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
When the driver who injured you in a motorcycle accident is inadequately insured, don’t give up hope. Flickinger Legal Group has been protecting the rights of Ohio motorcycle accident victims for 30 years, and we’re ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for your free consultation.