Do You Need Motorcycle Insurance?
As a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, you might have a few questions about motorcycle insurance. Is it required in my state? How much does it cost? How can I save money on motorcycle insurance? This guide from BMW Motorrad of Santa Maria will answer these questions and more! Keep reading for a quick primer on motorcycle insurance.
Are you still in the market for a motorcycle? If so, come check out our selection at BMW Motorrad of Santa Maria. You can find us in Santa Maria, CA.
Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in the United States?
Motorcycle insurance is a matter of state law. As of 2022, there are only three US states that do not require motorcycle riders to carry an insurance policy. These are Florida, Montana, and New Hampshire. In the other 47 states, you will need to provide proof of insurance when registering your motorcycle. If your motorcycle is not registered, you will not be permitted to ride on public roads. These state laws do not just apply to residents – uninsured riders traveling through states that require insurance can also experience legal penalties.
Do I Need Insurance if I Have a Learner’s Permit?
Most state laws and requirements are the same for permit holders and fully licensed motorcycle riders. If your state requires motorcycle insurance to register your bike, you will need insurance as a permit holder. At the very least, new riders will need a state-issued driver’s license, which requires them to have some liability coverage.
Do I Need Motorcycle Insurance for a Moped or Scooter?
If your state requires motorcycle insurance, you might also be required to insure your moped or scooter. This may depend on the speed potential of the vehicle, with mopeds and slow scooters (with top speeds under 35 miles per hour) being less likely to require insurance.
Can I Discontinue Coverage While My Motorcycle is in Storage?
Because motorcycle insurance is purchased as an annual policy, there is no advantage to canceling your policy when your motorcycle is being stored. More importantly, there are benefits to leaving your policy active in the off-season – for example, you will be covered in the event that your bike is damaged or stolen during long-term storage.
How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Cost?
Most riders pay between $60 and $75 per month for motorcycle insurance, though this can range all the way from $25 per month to $200 per month depending on the policy. The average cost of motorcycle insurance comes to about $519 per year.
How Can I Save Money on Motorcycle Insurance?
Saving money on insurance begins with your choice of motorcycle. Fancy sportbikes cost more to insure because they are more expensive to repair, and more likely to be stolen. You can count on lower premiums with a standard motorcycle.
Some insurance companies offer discounts as a reward for taking state-sponsored motorcycle training courses. You can also check with your insurance agent to see if there are any discounts available for mature riders, riders with clean records, or riders that are involved with motorcycle associations.
We hope you found these answers helpful! If you have any questions about motorcycle insurance, feel free to ask the friendly staff here at BMW Motorrad of Santa Maria. We proudly serve the motorcycle community in Santa Maria, CA.