If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, car insurance may provide coverage in the state of Colorado. Details about the types of insurance that will help to cover losses, medical expenses, and compensation for other damages and expenses are detailed. Hadfield Stieben Doutt is ready to provide legal representation as bicycle accident attorneys.
Is bicycle accident coverage included in Colorado’s car insurance?
It is common for a bicycle accident to be caused by the careless action of a motorized vehicle driver. As a matter of fact, more than 45,000 cyclists are injured yearly in the US due to car accidents. Common causes of Colorado bike accidents include distracted or impaired driving, speeding, following too closely, and dooring accidents.
In the event of a bicycle accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance will be the responsible party for paying, whether the party hit was in another car, on foot, or on a bicycle.A thorough investigation will determine the at-fault party. This investigation includes the police investigation at the time of the incident and then additional investigations done by the insurance company(ies).
How does car insurance work?
Car insurance is intended to protect the finances of the insured party in the event of car accidents, theft, or other auto incidents beyond your control. There are different types of car insurance coverage that can help cover any combination of vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and damages or injuries caused while driving. The different levels of coverage may also protect you financially if you are liable for another person’s injuries or damages, including medical bills for injuries that were caused by the accident.
What happens if the at-fault driver does not have car insurance?
If an automobile driver does not have car insurance, the individual hit may be able to receive compensation through their own auto insurance policy. This depends on the type of insurance policy. Uninsured/ underinsured insurance policies and personal injury protection are two types of insurance which may be helpful in the case of a bicycle accident.
What types of car insurance coverage can help with bicycle accidents?
Not all types of insurance are guaranteed to provide assistance with bicycle accidents. Uninsured/ underinsured insurance is able to provide financially for vehicle damages and injuries that are caused to you and your passengers in the event that you are hit by a driver with no or insufficient insurance, including bicycle accidents.
Personal injury protection insurance can provide coverage for medical bills and loss of wages if you are injured in a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.
What are the benefits of having uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured/ underinsured motorists on your car insurance policy generally cover you in the instance of a bicycle accident with a motorized vehicle, car or truck, in Colorado. The reason that coverage is a possibility is due to the phrasing “use” of a motor vehicle, implying that pedestrians and bicyclists involved in accidents with a motor vehicle will receive insurance coverage. The major benefit of this type of insurance is that it can also assist with medical costs. Even if the at-fault car or truck driver has insurance because their insurance will not be likely to cover all of your harms, losses, and expenses. Uninsured/ underinsured insurance will help cover the expenses that are not covered by other policies.
If you are a regular cyclist, it is a great idea to protect yourself and your family by having a UM/ UIM coverage policy. Coverage is an essential part of making sure you are prepared in the event of an accident.
How to file a claim with your car insurance company after a bicycle accident.
No matter the kind of accident, documentation is always critical. It is important to have any evidence possible, the police report, treatment and injury documents.
Evidence may include:
- Full name/ number of the at-fault (or other) driver
- Auto insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license or permit
- make/ model/ year of the vehicle
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- License plate number
- photographs/ video of the bike and car as well as injuries
- Medical reports from the scene
- any/ all follow-up treatment received afterwards
- Continued pictures of injuries
- Medical bills
- Continued medical reports
- Police report and reference number
The at-fault driver’s car insurance will be shared with the investigating police officer and will be on the police report. Notify the driver’s insurance company as soon as possible to file an injury claim. You should also notify your own insurance company, too. If you are represented by a bicycle accident lawyer, they will handle the insurance and damages claims for you. If you are not, then this part is up to you.
Contact Hadfield Stieben Doutt for help with your bicycle accident claim.
Being hit by a car can be a traumatic experience. You need to have help making sure that you receive proper compensation. If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident, and are looking for a bicycle accident lawyer, Hadfield Stieben Doutt is ready to offer consultation with you. We will look deep into the investigations and work with you to get exactly what you need. Contact HSD Law in Fort Collins to schedule your free consultation.