Motorcycle Insurance

Although motorcycle insurance is not legally required in some states, many riders choose to purchase it anyway. If you are moving to a new state or are new to motorcycles, you'll want to check your state's insurance laws before you begin riding to be sure that you are riding legally. If your state does require that you carry liability coverage, there are many different insurance options available to you.

Motorcycle Insurance Offers Peace of Mind

All motorcycle enthusiasts know that their beloved sport is a dangerous one, and many carry insurance as a way to protect themselves and their loved ones if and when an accident occurs. Motorcycles offer their riders less protection than an automobile during a collision, and can be driven much faster than most cars. An accident that might be relatively minor in a car can become much more serious when a motorcycle is involved.

Many riders also choose motorcycle insurance as a way to protect their machines. High-end motorcycles can be very expensive, and are often the targets of thieves. When you add special customizations and equipment into the equation, motorcycle insurance becomes a way to protect your investment in the case of loss or damage.

Bodily injury and property damage liability insurance is the most basic, and usually the least expensive, type of motorcycle insurance available. In the event of an accident, a liability policy will cover any damage or bodily harm that you cause to another individual or their property. When a state requires motorcyclists to carry insurance, it is a liability policy that is legal minimum coverage.

Specialized Types of Motorcycle Insurance

Comprehensive and collision insurance are good options for those looking for full coverage, regardless of the circumstances of an accident. Collision insurance covers the cost to repair or replace damaged property regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Comprehensive insurance is similar to collision insurance, but will additionally cover damages caused by other events such as theft, vandalism, or fire.

There is also motorcycle insurance that will cover damages to your property or person if you are involved in an accident with an individual who has no insurance. If you are involved in this type of situation and do not have uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance, you will receive no reimbursement for property damage or medical bills, even though you are not at fault. Uninsured motorist insurance will cover not only property damage, but also medical bills and lost wages due to an accident.

Because the chance of an accident resulting in serious injury increases when you are riding a motorcycle, many riders choose to get medical payment insurance. This type of insurance will cover the cost of your medical care, regardless of who is at fault. Often medical payment insurance is only valid within three years of the accident, or up to a specific dollar amount. Be sure to check have your insurer explain all policy details to you carefully before you purchase.

Finding the Best Motorcycle Insurance

Most major car insurance companies offer insurance for motorcycles, although you can also find smaller agencies who specialize in insuring motorcycle riders. As with auto insurance, your rate will be based on your age, driving record, address, and the type of bike you ride. It's a good idea to shop around before choosing a policy; rates can vary widely within the same area and comparison shopping can help you find the best deal.