The scenarios vary but it’s never fun to be hit by a careless or distracted motorist when riding your bike. Maybe the driver has insurance, maybe they don’t, or maybe what they have is simply inadequate to cover your injuries and property damage. Read on to learn about the necessity of insurance for cyclists in a crash.
What happens when a cyclist is hit by an at fault driver who has no liability insurance coverage?
Just because Ohio law requires insurance to drive, don’t assume a driver who carelessly causes a bike crash and hits a cyclist has liability insurance coverage, because many don’t! Uninsured drivers can simply check the box that says they have liability insurance! No proof of an auto insurance policy is required until the driver is pulled over.
However, in the case of a cyclist hit by uninsured driver, the cyclist would likely still be covered by their own uninsured motorist coverage under the cyclist’s personal auto policy, assuming the cyclist has a car and purchased this protection known as “U” coverage.
This is understandably a big deal when it comes to bicycle accidents, which can result in severe injuries including head injuries, subsequent physical therapy, and damage to property. Property damages can include your bike, accessories, and clothing.
What about when a cyclist is hit by an at fault driver who has inadequate insurance?
The cyclist would likely still be covered under the cyclist’s own underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) in their personal auto policy; assuming the cyclist also has a car and purchased this coverage known as “UIM” coverage (as most cyclists also own motor vehicles). For UIM to apply, the amount of the cyclist’s UIM coverage must exceed the liability limits of the at fault underinsured driver’s insurance policy.
“U/UIM” coverage is typically combined in an auto policy under “U” coverage. So, cyclists, please make sure to check your personal auto policy to confirm you have both U and UIM coverages under “U” coverage.
Remember, a cyclist doesn’t have “full coverage” unless the cyclist also has U/UIM coverage under their own personal auto policy!
These days when folks are buying their auto insurance, they’re often purchasing it online without professional advice. This is risky business because all insurance coverage is simply not the same. Ohio has eliminated the mandatory requirement of insurance companies offering U/UIM coverage, so the insurance company doesn’t even have to tell you it’s available!
The Bottom Line: Personal auto insurance coverage cyclists should carry
All cyclists whose budget can allow it should purchase U (U and UIM) coverage under their personal auto liability policy that could protect them if they are hit by an at fault motor vehicle driver with the bare minimum, or no liability insurance. This coverage should also provide bicycle hit-and-run insurance coverage if they are struck and the driver flees the scene, assuming there is independent corroborating evidence of the bike crash.
Regarding coverage for cyclists – and for all drivers – it’s best to go directly through an insurance agent for your insurance and discuss with them whether you are completely covered. Let the insurance experts guide you in this important purchase.
Can I purchase bike insurance separately from my auto coverage?
It should be clear that bike crash insurance protection is a must. Cyclists with no homeowners or renters insurance policies, and/or no personal auto coverage may consider purchasing a separate bicycle insurance policy. You can obtain a quote and purchase a separate bicycle insurance policy online at Velosurance.
What about bike theft insurance?
No cyclist wants to think about their bike getting stolen! However, if it happens, it’s good to know that with most insurance companies your bike is covered under “personal property/contents” on your homeowner or renters insurance, as long as it was taken from a known location. This coverage is subject to a deductible.
Regarding scheduling a bike on insurance, if you’ve taken the extra step of “scheduling” your conventional bicycle or electric bicycle (scheduling means itemizing specific items of value to provide higher levels of protection), not only is it covered, but you also won’t have to pay a deductible. Some deductibles are as high as $1,000.00! If you own an e-bike, some policies will have a coverage limit and won’t cover the entire amount for replacement so be sure to confirm those specifics with your licensed insurance broker.
Take it from a bicycle accident lawyer who has represented many casual and avid cyclists injured in bike crashes: If you ride a bike on the road in Greater Cleveland, you should consider protecting yourself from uninsured or underinsured careless and distracted drivers by contacting your personal auto insurance carrier and purchasing U coverage in the highest amount you can comfortably afford.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this article is general. Each insurance policy is a unique contract, with specific language and exclusions varying from company to company. The best insurance for cyclists depends on their individual needs.
