Spring brings a new rash of motorcycle accidents, and in the last couple of weeks I have been very upset by the number of cases I am seeing where the motorcycle rider has no insurance. A few years ago, the insurance commissioner did a big favor for insurance companies, and a law was passed that penalized uninsured drivers by prohibiting them from suing for "non-economic damages", that is, pain and suffering. Of course, this is the big number in most cases involving injuries to motorcyclists. For example, if the medical bills are $100,000, the wage loss is $50,000, and the damage to the bike including loss of use is $30,000, an insured motorcyclist will have a good size case, as you would expect. Those kinds of medical bills indicate at least an orthopedic surgery, and a significant injury. However, if the motorcycle rider is uninsured, the recovery will be limited to the $180, 000 in out of pocket losses listed above. Worse, the medical bills may have been paid by a health insurance carrier whose contract provides that they get paid back. Even if they discount what they take, it isn't a pretty picture for someone who will never be the same as they were before the accident. In addition to liability insurance, to avoid the problem we just discussed, uninsured motorist coverage will pay you when an uninsured driver causes the accident. Even though you can't register a car in California without insurance, it is amazing how many uninsured drivers there are. The insurance issue is particular sad when medical care is needed, and there isn't any insurance. Remember, you always have a better choice of doctores if you have a way to pay for the treatment. GET INSURANCE IF YOU DON'T HAVE IT. NUFF SAID. | 
