Car Insurance for Cyclists

Professional cyclist Andy Jaques-Maybes was struck in a hit-and-run just a week prior to Christmas.

Jaques-Maynes describes what happened

"I was just on my way back to here [Watsonville,CA], riding in the bike lane, just yesterday I was riding on the same road, I've probably ridden on that road to end almost every ride." Jacques-Maynes told podiuminsight.com.

"All of a sudden there's a car up under my elbow, clips my bar, this loud bang - I don't even remember seeing it, I heard it and then it just tossed me to the ground. I just slid to a stop and so I have a bunch of road rash, whatever, but I landed straight on my shoulder and instantly popped up and I was like oh, oh. But even as I was sliding, looking up (and thinking) 'what the hell was that?' I could see the car, just driving away, they never hit their brakes, no nothing."

Frightening. 

I choose to believe that the driver was inattentive and oblivious, rather than malicious. Putting aside the driver's mindset, this is still an awful accident. I hope Andy recovers quickly.

This news has prompted me to write a blog that I have wanted to publish for quite some time, a quick note on car insurance for cyclists.

Car Insurance for Cyclists?

Yes. It's called Uninsured Motorist insurance (“UM”) and it covers you if the driver who hit you does not have insurance. UM coverage can protect you in hit-and-run accidents, even if you are not driving your car. It can cover you if you are struck by a negligent driver while you are on your motorcycle, bicycle or horse. It can cover if you you are walking your dog. (There is also Under-Insured Motorist insurance (“UIM”) that provides the same type of protection if the negligent driver's policy is not large enough to cover the damages.)

Get the Maximum UM Coverage

I advise my cycling friends to opt for the maximal UM/UIM coverage they can afford. In California, UM/UIM coverage is included in a policy unless the insured opts out. The coverage is typically equal to the insured's liability coverage. 

Do I Need a Lawyer if it is My Insurance?

Maybe. If you find yourself in a situation similar to what Andy Jacque-Maynes is facing, it's advisable that you talk to an experienced personal injury attorney. While the face of insurance is often a friendly lizard or quirky woman in red lipstick, you do not want to go against them and try to negotiate the best settlement without representation.