What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Motorcycle insurance provides financial protection against various risks and potential damages that may occur while riding on the road.

Understanding what motorcycle insurance covers and the different types of coverage available is essential for riders to make informed decisions when purchasing an insurance policy.

Let’s take a look at what exactly motorcycle insurance covers, does not cover, how motorcycle insurance works, companies that offer motorcycle insurance, and more.

Key Takeaways

• Motorcycle insurance provides financial protection against risks and potential damages while riding on the road.
• The main types of coverage in motorcycle insurance are liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage.
• Optional coverages such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, and roadside assistance can be added to enhance protection.
• Consider factors such as the type of bike, its value, and frequency of use when determining coverage limits to adequately protect against potential damages or losses.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Motorcycle insurance provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage liability, which are standard in most policies. This means that if you are at fault in an accident and someone is injured or their property is damaged, your insurance will cover their expenses.

Additionally, there are optional coverages available to enhance your protection.

Motorcycle Liability Coverage

One of the primary types of coverage is liability coverage, which is required by law in most states. Liability coverage helps protect you financially if you are responsible for causing damage or injuries to others in an accident.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Medical Bills?

Medical bills are not always covered under motorcycle insurance. If you want coverage for your own medical expenses related to a motorcycle accident, you may need to consider additional coverage options, such as medical payments coverage or personal injury protection.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Other Riders?

Motorcycle insurance may also cover other riders, including passengers. If another driver is at fault, their insurance should generally cover the passengers. If you have a policy that allows others to borrow your motorcycle, they can usually benefit from the same coverage as the primary policyholder.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Drops, Damages, or Engine Failure?

When it comes to damages caused by dropping your motorcycle or engine failure, coverage may vary depending on the specific policy. It's important to review your policy details to understand what is covered in these situations.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft?

Motorcycle insurance may also include coverage for theft or vandalism. Comprehensive coverage will generally cover your bike if it is stolen, while collision coverage will help pay to repair damages caused by an accident with another vehicle or object.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover a Rental Car?

In some cases, motorcycle insurance may also cover rental car expenses if your bike is damaged in an accident. This coverage typically kicks in after you've exhausted other options, such as repair or replacement of the damaged bike. If you choose to add this coverage to your policy, it will pay for a rental car while the repairs are being made.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Track Days?

According to Progressive, motorcycle insurance typically does not cover track days, race days, or speed events. However, you can usually add track days to your coverage with certain companies. Make sure to ask your insurance representative about track day coverage if this is something you’re interested in.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Not Cover?

It's important for riders to understand that there are certain exclusions or limitations to what motorcycle coverage can protect against. Here are some things that motorcycle insurance generally does not cover:

1. Regular Wear and Tear: Motorcycle insurance does not typically cover expenses related to regular maintenance or repairs due to normal use.

2. Intentional Damage: If you intentionally cause damage to your motorcycle, don't expect your insurance policy to cover the cost of repairs. Insurance is designed to protect against unexpected accidents and events, not deliberate actions.

3. Racing or Stunt Activities: Motorcycle insurance policies usually exclude coverage for accidents or damages that occur during organized racing events or stunt performances. Engaging in such activities may void your insurance policy altogether.

4. Cosmetic Enhancements: If you've made modifications to your motorcycle, such as installing custom parts or adding special paint jobs, these cosmetic enhancements may not be fully covered by standard motorcycle insurance. You may need to add optional coverage to ensure adequate protection for these personalized features.

5. Riding in Certain Territories: Some insurance policies have geographic limitations, and coverage may not apply if you ride your motorcycle in certain territories or countries. It is important to review your policy to understand any restrictions on where you can ride your motorcycle and what coverage is provided.

Types of Motorcycle Insurance

What you use your bike for will affect the type of coverage you need. The different types of motorcycle insurance are as follows:

1. Motorcycle Liability Insurance: This type of coverage is mandatory in most states and helps protect you financially if you cause an accident that results in bodily injury or property damage to others. 

Liability coverage typically includes two components: bodily injury liability and property damage liability. Bodily injury liability covers medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees for the injured party, while property damage liability covers repairs or replacement of the damaged property. 

2. Motorcycle Collision Insurance: Collision coverage reimburses you for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle if it is damaged or destroyed in a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault. For instance, if you collide with a car while making a turn, collision insurance will cover the cost of repairing your motorcycle. The coverage typically requires the payment of a deductible before the insurance kicks in.

3. Comprehensive Coverage Insurance: Comprehensive coverage protects your motorcycle from non-collision-related damages, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters. It also covers damages caused by hitting an animal. 

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage: This optional coverage is crucial for protecting yourself if you are involved in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage to pay for your injuries or damages. It helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and even legal fees. Having uninsured/underinsured coverage can give you peace of mind on the road.

5. Motorcycle Repair and Insurance for Customized Parts: While standard motorcycle insurance typically covers repairs or replacement of original parts, it may not fully cover customized parts or accessories that you've added to your bike. To protect these modifications, you can select additional coverage options for your customized parts, such as custom paint jobs, upgraded exhaust systems, or specialty lights.

6. Motorcycle Medical Insurance and Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Medical payments coverage, also known as MedPay, helps cover the medical expenses for you and your passenger if you're injured in a motorcycle accident, regardless of fault. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) goes a step further, providing a broader range of coverage, including medical expenses, lost wages, and even funeral expenses.

7. Third Party Liability Motorcycle Insurance: If you cause an accident that results in injuries or property damage to others, this coverage pays for the injured party's medical expenses and property repairs. It also covers legal fees if they decide to sue you. Third party liability coverage is typically included in your motorcycle liability insurance.

8. Total Loss Motorcycle Insurance: In the unfortunate event that your motorcycle is stolen or irreparably damaged, this coverage will provide you with the actual cash value of your bike at the time of the loss. It helps ensure that you can replace your motorcycle or be compensated adequately for the loss.

9. Insurance for Carried Contents and Personal Belongings: This coverage provides protection for personal belongings that are stolen or damaged while on your motorcycle. It typically includes items such as riding gear, helmets, and other accessories.

10. Insurance for Roadside Assistance and Towing: Roadside assistance coverage provides valuable support if your motorcycle breaks down or you have a flat tire. It may include services such as towing, fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, locksmith services, and more.

Additional Types of Insurance for Motorcyclists

Apart from the essential types of motorcycle insurance coverage mentioned earlier, there are additional options that riders can consider to enhance their financial protection and tailor their policies to their specific needs.

Life Insurance for Motorcycle Riders

While life insurance is not directly related to motorcycle accidents, it is still an important coverage for riders who want to ensure their loved ones are financially protected in the event of their death. Having a life insurance policy can provide a lump sum payment to beneficiaries, helping to cover funeral expenses, outstanding debts, and ongoing financial needs.

Motorcycling Travel Insurance

For riders who enjoy embarking on long-distance trips or touring adventures, motorcycling travel insurance can be beneficial. This specialized coverage can protect you in case of emergencies such as breakdowns, accidents, or medical expenses while riding in different regions or countries. It may also include coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances.

How Does Motorcycle Insurance Work?

Motorcycle insurance is a type of coverage that protects motorcycle riders financially in the event of an accident or incident. It works by paying monthly premiums to an insurance company, and in return, the company provides compensation if the rider files a claim.

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required?

Yes, motorcycle insurance is required in nearly every state. While the specific requirements may vary, basic liability coverage is mandatory. This coverage provides compensation for property damage and bodily injury that the motorcycle rider causes to others.

What Motorcycle Insurance Do I Need?

Beyond the basic requirements, the type and amount of additional coverage are up to the rider. There are various coverage options available, including coverage for medical expenses, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and roadside assistance.

Other Vehicles That Fall Under Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

Motorcycle insurance coverage extends beyond traditional motorcycles to include other types of vehicles. These vehicles fall under the umbrella of motorcycle insurance because they share similar characteristics and risks.

Mopeds and scooters. These smaller, two-wheeled vehicles are often used for commuting or short trips, but they require insurance coverage just like motorcycles. 

Trikes and motorcycles with sidecars. These bikes have three wheels instead of two, and also fall under motorcycle insurance coverage. These unique vehicles still face the same risks on the road as traditional motorcycles, so insurance is necessary to protect both the rider and others involved in an accident.

ATVs, or All-Terrain Vehicles. ATVs are off-road vehicles designed for recreational use, but they can still be involved in accidents causing property damage or bodily injury. Therefore, having the proper insurance coverage is essential for ATV riders.

Examples of Companies that Offer Insurance for Motorbikes

When it comes to finding insurance coverage for your motorbike, there are several reputable companies that specialize in providing policies specifically designed for motorcycle riders. Here are some examples of companies that offer insurance for motorbikes:

1. Nationwide: Nationwide offers motorcycle insurance policies that provide coverage for a variety of motorcycles, including cruisers, sport bikes, and vintage bikes. Their coverage options include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. According to ValuePenguin, Nationwide motorcycle insurance averages $593 per year.

2. Progressive: Progressive offers coverage for various types of motorcycles, including scooters, cruisers, and touring bikes. Progressive's policies include liability coverage, comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Average cost of motorcycle insurance at Progressive is $625 per year.

3. Geico: Geico is known for its affordable insurance with policies that include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Geico provides coverage for a wide range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, and touring bikes, and insurance averages $610 per year.

4. Dairyland: Dairyland is a specialized insurance company offering comprehensive coverage options, including liability coverage, property damage coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Dairyland also provides additional coverages like medical payments coverage and roadside assistance, and average cost per year is $881.

5. Allstate: Allstate offers motorcycle insurance policies averaging $854 per year. They provide coverage for different types of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, and touring bikes. Their coverage options include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Allstate also offers optional coverages like guest passenger liability coverage and optional equipment coverage.

6. Markel: Markel policies include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Markel also offers optional coverages, like roadside assistance and equipment coverage. Average cost per year at Markel is $822.

Final Word: Understanding Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

Motorcycle insurance coverage is designed to protect you and your motorcycle from potential risks and financial liabilities. From liability coverage to comprehensive coverage, understanding the various types of coverage available can help you choose the right policy for your specific needs.