As the weather warms up and motorcyclists across Massachusetts prepare to hit the road this spring, there’s one thing that should be at the top of your checklist – insurance coverage. While it’s easy to get caught up in tuning your bike or planning scenic rides, overlooking your motorcycle insurance could have serious financial consequences if you are seriously injured in a motorcycle accident.
Our Framingham motorcycle accident lawyers have extensive experience successfully representing people who have been severely injured in motorcycle crashes. We have obtained the compensation our clients deserve through claims management and litigation in personal injury cases. If you have questions about a motorcycle accident case, feel free to call our attorneys at 508-879-3500 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
The Big Difference: Motorcycle vs. Motor Vehicle Insurance
Many riders assume that motorcycle insurance provides the same protections as auto insurance. That’s a costly misconception.
Motor vehicles in Massachusetts are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which can provide up to $8,000 in benefits. PIP helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and even funeral costs—regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
Motorcycles, however, are a different story.
According to the Massachusetts Division of Insurance, insurance companies are not required to provide PIP coverage on motorcycle policies. That means if you're injured on your bike, your health insurance is your first—and possibly only—line of defense for medical bills.
There’s no immediate compensation for lost wages, and you’ll likely be responsible for co-pays, and out-of-pocket medical expenses – amounts your health insurance doesn’t cover. In severe motorcycle accidents, which are unfortunately common, medical bills can become overwhelming very quickly.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
While you can't add PIP to your motorcycle policy, you can and should consider adding Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage. This coverage acts as a limited substitute for PIP and can help cover medical costs for you or your passenger in the event of an accident.
Additionally, boosting your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is highly recommended. If you're hit by a driver who has no insurance – or not enough – this coverage can be critical in helping you recover the compensation you need.
After a Motorcycle Accident: You Need an Experienced Attorney & Advocate
Dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle crash can become complicated fast. Between climbing medical bills, confusing policy language, and delays in compensation, having experienced legal help is not just useful – it’s essential.
At Mahaney & Pappas, LLP, our Framingham personal injury lawyers have spent decades representing injured motorcyclists across Massachusetts. From Boston to Worcester and all towns in between, we understand how to investigate motorcycle accidents, work with expert medical professionals, and build strong cases to get our clients the money they deserve.
