Frequently Asked Questions

When I purchase a motorcycle do I have to carry insurance?

Yes. You must carry liability insurance to cover others who may be injured or damaged by your negligent operation of your motorcycle.

What kind of insurance coverage can I get as a motorcycle rider?

Liability Coverage

Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that you may cause to other people involved in a motorcycle, Harley, ATV or scooter accident. It doesn't cover you or your motorcycle. Find out if your coverage includes Guest Passenger Liability, which provides protection in the event that a passenger is injured on the motorcycle. Whether or not this is included depends on the laws of your state and the company issuing the policy.

Collision Coverage

Collision insurance covers damage to your motorcycle if you are involved in an accident. Your insurance company pays for damages, minus your deductible, caused when you collide with another vehicle or object. Collision insurance usually covers the book value of the motorcycle, Harley, ATV or scooter before the loss occurred.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage pays for damages caused by an event other than a collision, such as fire, theft or vandalism. However, just like collision coverage, your insurance company will pay for damages, minus your deductible, and will cover only the book value of the motorcycle, Harley, ATV or scooter.

* Keep in mind most comprehensive and collision coverage will only cover the factory standard parts on your motorcycle. If you decide to add on any optional accessories such as chrome parts, a custom paint job, trailers or sidecars, you should look into obtaining additional or optional equipment coverage.

Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage covers damages to you and your property caused by another driver who either doesn't have insurance (uninsured) or doesn't have adequate insurance (underinsured) to cover your damages.

This coverage typically pays for medical treatment, lost wages and other damages. If your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage includes property damage, then your motorcycle would also be covered under the same circumstances. Check with your insurance professional to see if property damage is included in your insurance policy or needs to be purchased separately.

Who pays if my motorcycle is damaged?

If you purchase collision coverage your insurance will pay for the damage over and above your deductible. If another driver causes the damage to your motorcycle, Harley, ATV or scooter you would have the option of presenting the claim to that drivers insurance company if he or she had insurance.

What happens if my motorcycle is stolen?

You should purchase what is known as "comprehensive" coverage to cover your motorcycle for theft, fire and vandalism -- common occurrences with motorcycles.

Your insurance will pay the book value of your motorcycle, Harley, ATV or scooter - less a deductible or the value of the damage. Usually the deductible for fire damage is less than that for theft or vandalism.

If you have further questions or comments please click here to contact the Motorcycle Insurance Professionals.