Rhode Island motorcycle insurance

Even though Rhode Island is the country’s smallest state, it offers plenty of scenic routes to explore. Whether you’re cruising through Providence or along the Atlantic coast, you need a motorcycle insurance policy and knowledge of the state’s rules of the road.

What’s required of all motorcycle riders in Rhode Island?

Helmets: The following types of riders are required to wear motorcycle helmets:
- All motorcycle operators under the age of 21
- New motorcycle operators—no matter their age—for one year after the date they receive their motorcycle operator’s license
- All passengers
Eye protection: You need to wear eye protection, such as goggles or glasses, whenever you ride.
Handlebars: Your handlebars can’t extend more than 15 inches above the seat.
Headlights: Your bike must have at least one headlight, but no more than two. It must be able to reveal objects 300 feet ahead.
Rear reflectors: Your bike must have at least one red rear reflector.
Mufflers: Your motorcycle needs a muffler that meets these acoustical limits (measured at 50 feet):
- 35 mph or slower: 86dBA
- 36 mph or faster: 90dBA
Passengers: Your passengers need a designated seat—whether permanent or attached to the rear or side of your motorcycle—along with a footrest and handlebar or grip.

What are the motorcycle insurance requirements in Rhode Island?

All motorcycle riders licensed in Rhode Island need to have motorist insurance with a motorcycle endorsement. You’ll need to show proof of insurance when you register your motorcycle.

Here are the minimum motorcycle insurance coverage limits you’ll need to purchase:

$25,000 for bodily injury liability to one individual or death
$50,000 for bodily injury to two or more individuals or death
$25,000 for property damage liability per accident

Are optional motorcycle insurance coverages available in Rhode Island?

Yes. While purchasing just the minimum coverage limits listed above can help ensure you comply with state requirements, those coverages alone won’t apply if you’re injured or your bike is damaged in an accident. Here are some additional coverages to consider adding to your policy:

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive motorcycle insurance coverage can help pay for motorcycle repairs if your bike is damaged by something other than a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or hail.

Uninsured motorist (UM)/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage

Around 16.5 percent of Rhode Island motorists—nearly one in six—don’t have motor vehicle insurance. If you get into an accident with one of these drivers, UM coverage can help cover medical expenses related to your bodily injuries—potentially saving you from paying thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Note: UM/UIM bodily injury liability coverage is required if your bodily injury liability limits exceed the state-required minimums. UM/UIM property damage liability isn’t required in Rhode Island, but you’ll have to sign a form to opt out of it.

Medical payments coverage

It’s an unfortunate reality that hospital visits are usually pretty expensive. This optional coverage can help pay for your medical bills and your passenger’s medical bills—plus any related fees—following a covered accident.

Note: You’ll have to sign a form to opt out of medical payments coverage.

Rhode Island motorcycle insurance discounts

We believe your motorcycle insurance policy should be as customizable as your bike itself. To help, we offer a range of motorcycle insurance discounts. Here are a few you could qualify for:

Homeowner
Multi-vehicle
Anti-theft
Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) member
Loyalty
Operator safety course
Motorcycle rider group
Multi-line

Sites to see in Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be a small state, but it offers no shortage of places to explore. You’ll enjoy well-maintained roads that guide you through small towns and lush New England forests. Here are a few must-see destinations:

US Route 44

If you’re looking for an adventure, this stretch of US Route 44 from Providence to the Connecticut state line is for you. You’ll ride through villages and small towns, and pass near Pascoag Reservoir—make sure to stop for a quick swim or even some fishing.

Western Rhode Island Loop

While the Western Rhode Island Loop takes you on several backcountry roads, you won’t need to worry about amenities. You’ll encounter plenty of places to shop, eat, and get some exercise. Be sure to stop at Beach Pond, Boone Lake, and Pine Hill.

Shannock Village

Shannock Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When you turn right onto Shannock Village Road, you’ll see two mill complexes, workers’ cottages, and the mill owner's house. A must-stop for American history buffs!

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