Understanding the Elements of Motorcycle Insurance

Just like with a vehicle, your motorcycle faces a variety of dangers both on and off the road that should be protected by insurance. Motorcycle insurance has many different elements of coverage designed for your bike.

Required Motorcycle Insurance  

Almost all states require vehicle operators, including bikers, to carry vehicle insurance.

Usually, the required coverage is liability protection. This insurance protects the harm you might cause to others in a vehicle accident. For example, if you rear-end someone, you will likely be responsible for that person’s damage. You can use the liability coverage to help compensate that party for their damage.

Texas requires a minimum amount of coverage including:

• $30,000 in bodily injury liability per person 

• $60,000 in bodily injury liability per accident 

• $25,000 in property damage liability 

Keep in mind, each state sets different requirements. Some will require higher liability elements. Others will require different forms of coverage. These might include:

• Uninsured/underinsured coverage: Use this protection if another at-fault driver does not carry enough liability insurance (or any at all). This protection can help you pay for your own damage for which someone else was responsible.  

• Personal injury protection: Pays for your own medical needs following a wreck.  

In some cases, you might be able to decline certain portions of required coverage. For example, if you can self-insure, you could possibly decline certain coverage. Still, you should never go without the proper financial protection.

Other Coverage to Add to Your Policy  

Remember, your state’s required coverage is set at minimum levels. You’ll likely need expanded coverage to protect the true value invested in your bike.

• Ask your insurance agent to increase your liability limits. This move can help to make your potential duty to others more secure.  

• Consider buying collision coverage. This protection can help you pay for damage to your own bike following a wreck.  

• Also ask about comprehensive protection. It can pay for your bike’s damage from non-accident hazards like fire, weather or theft.  

• Many policies offer roadside assistance, towing or rental car coverage. Therefore, following vehicle problems, you’ll have protection for residual costs.  

Remember, the limits you select on your policy must reflect your own bike value and driving risks. Help your agent understand the full financial investment you have on your bike. With the right coverage, you can make yourself much more secure.

Shop around and speak with an insurance agent about protecting your motorcycle.