Insurance Checklist for Getting your Motorcycle Back on the Road

It’s exciting to get back out there, but before you do, be sure to check your motorcycle insurance, as well as the motorcycle itself.

Update Your Insurance Coverage

During winter, you may have taken your bike off the road or temporarily reduced coverage limits. If you have a plate on your bike, you may be tempted that first warm day to take it for a ride, but if you haven’t switched your policy back to the limits you usually carry on your vehicles, don’t take the chance. If you or someone else is injured, you’ll more than regret making an impulsive decision.  Also, if you’ve moved or significantly changed how many miles you ride, it might change your insurance premium amount.

Coverage for Your Bike and Equipment

New motorcycle replacement—If you have a new bike, ask about special replacement cost coverage. New motorcycles depreciate quickly, so this endorsement will provide funds for a brand-new motorcycle if you lose it within a specific time frame or number of miles.

Custom bike equipment or accessories—If you’ve been sprucing up or customizing your bike, be sure that the value of your upgrades is listed in the value. Unless you specifically add them, they may not be covered.

Gear and personal belongings—If you wear special protective gear or carry personal belongings, check how your insurance policy covers these items or if you need a special endorsement. You could save money in an accident if personal property is covered under the vehicle deductible rather than under your home/renter policy.

Coverage for Injuries to Others or Yourself

When riding a motorcycle, you’re far more exposed than when riding in a vehicle, so be sure that your policy is top-notch.

Guest riders and yourself – Not all policies automatically cover guests, so ensure you have coverage even for occasional riders.  Also, consider medical payment coverage that can pay for medical expenses for you or your guests, which can be significant even if you have good health insurance due to deductibles and other costs. Another option is uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which will cover you if someone who caused your injury isn’t adequately insured.

Bodily injury to others—Even though you’re in a smaller vehicle, you can be at fault for causing an accident. Be sure your policy has higher limits if you swerve or are responsible for causing injury.

Please Contact Us at Murphy Insurance, and one of our professionals can walk you through your motorcycle insurance policy and discuss options for better protection. Even if it’s only been a few months, looking at your coverage with fresh eyes is always smart before getting back on the road. Situations can change, and it never hurts to review. Being adequately protected will make your summer fun all the more enjoyable.