If you are shopping for motorcycle insurance for the first time, you may have many questions that need answering. You need to make sure you understand what your insurance needs are so that you have the coverage to satisfy these needs.
- Do I need motorcycle insurance?
Amazingly, there are people riding without insurance because they do not understand that it is mandatory. Just as there is a minimum amount of insurance needed to drive a car, a minimum coverage is required by law for motorcycles. Some people avoid this because they do not use their motorcycle very much, but how often you use the bike bears no influence on the requirement to carry insurance.
- What is the minimum coverage I need?
This will depend upon the laws of the state where you live. In general, you will need to carry liability and property damage. This insurance is specifically for an accident for which you are responsible. It will cover the other person’s expenses related to the accident. This includes the damage to another vehicle or property as well as any medical or other expenses related to injuries. It does not cover any injury to you or damage to your own motorcycle. What will vary from one state to another will be the minimum dollar amount of coverage for a policy.
- Will this minimum insurance pay if my motorcycle is stolen?
Minimum insurance coverage will not cover you in the event that your motorcycle is stolen. If you are concerned about having your motorcycle stolen, you will need to carry this specific coverage on your policy. If you have an old motorcycle, you may be tempted not to carry any theft on your policy; however, you should first obtain a quote because theft coverage for an older motorcycle should not be very expensive, and it will not add much cost to the policy.
- What about coverage for my motorcycle?
If you are at fault in an accident, the other driver’s insurance will pay you nothing. This is why comprehensive and collision coverage exists. This insurance can also cover you even when there is no driver involved, for example, if you happen to hit something with your bike. Damage from weather conditions can be included in your policy, as well.
- What are other types of coverage should I consider?
Uninsured motorist coverage is a good aspect for any type of motorcycle insurance. Even though insurance is required by law for both cars and motorcycles, there are still many drivers and riders who do not have any insurance. If they are at fault in an accident without insurance, they will be fined, but there will be no insurance company to pay for damages to your bike.
- What do I do if I get into an accident with my motorcycle?
If there has been an injury, the first thing to do is call for medical assistance. Without injury, you may need to call the police if the damages are significant. If the damages are minor, you need only exchange information. Exchange basic information from your drivers' licenses as well as the contact information for your insurance company. Your insurance company should be contacted as soon as possible.
