Virginia House Bill HB2492

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25

Caption

Motor vehicle accidents; actions brought by uninsured motorists, limited damages.

Impact

The passage of HB 2492 could significantly impact how uninsured motorists approach their claims post-accident. By limiting recoverable damages for personal injury and property damage claims, the bill seeks to penalize the operation of uninsured vehicles while simultaneously promoting responsible insurance practices among drivers. This legislation not only affects individual rights in seeking damages but also aims to alleviate potential financial burdens on insurance providers facing an influx of claims from uninsured parties.

Summary

House Bill 2492 aims to amend the existing laws concerning motor vehicle accidents, particularly focusing on actions brought by uninsured motorists. The bill introduces a stipulation that requires individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident as owners or operators of an uninsured vehicle to be barred from recovering the first $25,000 in damages for personal injury and property damage claims. This measure appears directed at regulating the potential frivolous claims following accidents where the parties lack adequate insurance coverage.

Contention

While supporters of HB 2492 argue that its provisions are essential for addressing the issue of uninsured drivers and reducing insurance costs for the insured population, opponents raise concerns about the equity of penalizing individuals who may not have the means to carry insurance. Critics suggest that the bill disproportionately affects low-income individuals and could leave many without any recourse in the event of accidents, especially in situations where the contributing party was at fault but was intoxicated or intentionally negligent. Hence, debates surrounding this legislation center on balancing individual responsibility and the protection of vulnerable drivers.