If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, insurance plays a pivotal role in your recovery. It determines how much compensation you can receive for your injuries, property damage, and other expenses.
Types of insurance that may impact your claim
In Maryland, several types of insurance affect your bicycle accident claim. The primary one is the driver’s auto insurance. The driver’s liability insurance may cover your injuries if the driver is at fault. Additionally, your own insurance may come into play, especially if you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is another option. If the driver who caused your accident doesn’t have enough insurance or has no insurance at all, this coverage can help cover your costs. However, not all policies offer these protections, so it’s important to check your policy ahead of time.
Contributory negligence in Maryland
Maryland follows a legal rule called contributory negligence. This rule means that if you are found even slightly at fault in the accident, Maryland bars you from receiving compensation. Insurance companies in Maryland closely examine the circumstances of the accident to determine if you bear any responsibility. Even if you think you were mostly not at fault, insurance adjusters might argue otherwise, which could affect your ability to recover compensation.
Working with insurance companies after a bike accident
Dealing with insurance claims after a bicycle accident can be complex. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or offer a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages.
Even if the process seems straightforward, working with your insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance can involve tricky negotiations. Keep detailed records of medical expenses, repair costs, and other damages as evidence to support your claim.
Maryland law and insurance regulations significantly affect the outcome of your bicycle accident claim. By understanding these laws and your coverage options, you can increase your chances of a fair outcome.
