5 motorcycle insurance facts you need to know

5 facts you might not know about motorcycle insurance

Added February 26, 2020

Front view of two motorcycles riding on a two lane road on a sunny day

Even as an experienced rider, you may not know everything about motorcycle insurance coverage. So, we’re here to help fill in the gaps. Let’s look at 5 things you may not know about motorcycle insurance but are helpful to keep in mind when evaluating your insurance policy options.

1. Motorcycle insurance can cover more than just motorcycles

Did you know through motorcycle insurance, you can cover your moped or scooter? Typically, whatever coverage is offered for a motorcycle insurance plan can be applied to your moped or scooter.

Most states require mopeds and scooters to have some form of insurance, and getting covered through your motorcycle insurance policy is one option available.

2. Motorcycle insurance can cover your gear, too

When you get in an accident, often your bike isn’t the only thing that’s damaged. Sometimes your motorcycle helmet, gear, or special equipment is damaged, too, and it can be expensive to replace those items. So, most motorcycle insurance policies offer optional/special equipment coverage.

The replacement cost that each insurance company will cover varies, but typically the coverage is the difference between the optional equipment’s value and the standard equipment it replaces.

3. There are money-saving discounts available

No matter what insurance coverage you opt-for, it should always be affordable. So, motorcycle insurance plans typically offer a variety of discounts. Some examples of motorcycle insurance discounts include:

Multi-cycle
Home ownership
Harley Owners Group^® (H.O.G.^®) member
Rider group
Rider safety course
Transfer
Loyalty

Make sure to discuss available discounts with an insurance agent when you’re researching what insurance plan is best for you.

4. Roadside assistance can be covered by your insurance company

Some riders may not know that many motorcycle insurance plans offer a roadside assistance coverage option for when you’re on the open road and your bike unexpectedly breaks down. At Dairyland^®, our roadside assistance can help with:

Dead battery
Empty gas tank
Lost key
Flat tire
Low oil, fluids, or water

And if you need a tow to the nearest service station, roadside assistance can help with that, too!

5. If you own a motorcycle, insurance is required in 48 states

Insurance and helmet laws vary across the United States. Florida and New Hampshire are the only states that don’t require motorcycle owners to carry motorcycle liability insurance. In fact, you won’t be able to register your bike unless you can show proof of insurance. There are different insurance requirements for every state, so make sure to research what’s required where you live before you purchase a motorcycle insurance policy.

And if you live in a state that doesn’t require insurance, it’s still best to purchase a policy. If you decide not to, you could be setting yourself up for some big out-of-pocket costs down the road.