Importance of Having Uninsured / Underinsured (UM) Insurance Coverage - Attorney Fran Haasch

A few months ago, I wrote an article about the importance of Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorist (UM) coverage. I’m glad so many people have called our office or told me at the different motorcycle events that they had added UM to their insurance policies. There is still a general misconception of what people believe is “full coverage” on a motorcycle insurance policy. Some believe if they have health insurance that they do not need to carry Uninsured Motorist coverage. Most health insurance policies do not cover anything more than your medical bills and many times leave you with co-payments and outstanding medical bills. Health insurance will NOT pay for lost wages. Any time that you miss from work, be it in the hospital or recovering at home or in a rehabilitation facility, you will not be compensated by your health insurance carrier.

Health insurance will not compensate you for many damages such as the following:
1) Any pain and suffering sustained from a bodily injury;
2) Any disability;
3) Any disfigurement or scarring;
4) Any mental anguish;
5) Loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life;
6) Any earnings or work time loss;
7) Loss of ability to earn money in the future;
8) Any loss of services, comfort, society, and attentions of a spouse.

You are probably wondering now who will compensate you for these damages if you are injured in a motorcycle accident by someone who carries little or no bodily injury coverage. Well, no need to worry if you carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage on your motorcycle. If you do carry UM coverage, the above damages would be considered by a jury in awarding of damages or the settlement of your case. Without Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorist coverage on your policy, you are NOT fully covered.

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage or need any additional information regarding a motorcycle or automobile accident please contact our office at (727) 784-8191. We will be happy to answer your questions free of charge.

Attorney Fran Haasch
Palm Harbor