Motorcycle Insurance Explained
Motorcycle insurance differs from automobile insurance in that it requires a limited tort for a motorcycle and a full tort for an automobile. Full tort costs more, of course, but it provides protection against pain and suffering and personal injury claims. Coverage can include mopeds, dirt bikes, motocross bikes and scooters. Just like car insurance, though, insurance companies take a variety of factors into consideration in determining premium rates. These factors include driving record, experience, age and geographic location.
As with car insurance, age of the driver will affect the cost. As you might imagine, younger drivers are considered higher risks. Women under 21 and men under 25 usually have the highest premiums. These amounts can differ from state to state.
Another important factor taken into consideration is driving record. If one has had recent tickets or accidents where claims were filed it will probably affect the rate. Even if a driver is over 25, his motorcycle riding experience, or lack thereof, plays a part. After the purchase of ones first bike, chances are it will cost more for coverage. Compare rates between different insurers, there can be a considerable difference in cost. A driver who takes the time to compare motorcycle insurance costs could save a lot.
Where one resides can be the biggest factor insurers take into consideration. People who live in highly populated city areas pay higher rates than those who live in more sparsely populated areas. The more traffic there is, the higher the accident rate. This will affect the cost of premiums. You may also find cost differences between certain states and even counties that are unrelated to traffic. Do not lie on the application by claiming to live in another area to get a lower rate. This constitutes fraud, though, and as such carried criminal penalties.
The make, model and year of your bike will impact the cost of insurance. In most states, motorcycle insurance includes collision coverage, comprehensive physical damage coverage and accessories coverage as well as bodily injury liability. There are other types of coverage that are worth looking into, including coverage for medical payments, no-fault or personal injury protection, and property damage liability.
The comprehensive coverage that pays for damage when a cyclist hits a vehicle or vice versa is called collision insurance. If you carry this type of coverage, it can replace things like saddlebags, helmets, seats, chrome pieces, backrests and CB radios. Make sure to retain receipts for any of these types of accessories so that you can prove their value should they be damaged or destroyed.
Injury or even death while riding a motorcycle is intended to be covered by bodily injury insurance. It also will provide legal defense if a suit is filed. Medical payments, no-fault or personal injury protection allow one to select medical coverage that will protect passengers as well as the driver. Property damage to someone else’s property is covered as well as legal defense costs.
For a minimal amount, one can also get roadside assistance. This will cover towing and labor to repair a flat tire, an electrical breakdown, a dead battery or being stuck in the snow. Comparing motorcycle insurance companies is easy now that their rates are available online. There are websites that will get quotes from several companies and allow you to compare them side by side, or you can go directly to the website of the companies you’re interested in. Comparison shopping is the best way to save money while getting the coverage you need.
Find discount motorcycle insurance online. Motorbike insurance can be purchased from the same companies that sell car insurance.
Tags: personal finance, autos, Car Insurance