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Motorcycle Insurance Coverages 101

Most states require you to have motorcycle liability insurance to help pay for property damage or bodily injury suffered by others in a crash for which you are found to be the at-fault driver. In addition to requiring liability insurance, most states have set minimum limits that your liability insurance coverages must meet.

State mandated limits tend to be low, and if you want to get the most out of your motorcycle insurance you should consider purchasing higher limits as well as buying optional types of motorcycle insurance.

When you are comparing motorcycle insurance quotes, remember to factor in the types of coverage you want and the limits at which you want them to be set.

Motorcycle Insurance Coverages

There are a number of common motorcycle insurance coverages that can help you get a highly protective motorcycle insurance policy.

Our motorcycle coverage pages can guide you through the often mystifying world of motorcycle coverage. Learn about basic coverages, such as:

  • Bodily injury liability - Along with property damage liability, this coverage makes up the most commonly required type of motorcycle insurance. This coverage will help pay for injuries suffered by others in a crash you cause.
  • Property damage liability - If you cause damage to other people's property, this coverage will help pay for repairs of those damages.
  • Comprehensive - This type of motorcycle insurance coverage will help with damages to your bike that are not the result of an accident, such as vandalism.
  • Collision - This coverage will help pay for repairs if your bike is damaged in an accident.
  • Medical payments - If you are hurt in a crash, this coverage can help with your medical costs.
  • Personal injury protection (PIP) - Like medical payments, this coverage will help with medical costs. It is generally required in "no-fault" states. However, note that motorcycles tend to be an exception to no-fault laws.
  • Uninsured motorist - Even though most states require vehicle insurance, there are still plenty of uninsured drivers on the road. This coverage can help pay your costs if you are in an accident caused by an uninsured motorist.
  • Underinsured motorist - This coverage will help when another driver's liability insurance is insufficient to cover your costs.
  • Motorcycle roadside assistance - Also known as towing and labor coverage, this can be highly valuable when your bike breaks down on the road.
  • Accessory coverage - This coverage can cover custom parts and equipment you add to your bike.

Keep in mind that not all motorcycle insurance companies will offer the same types of coverages, and some states even prohibit companies from offering certain types of coverage.

Ask your motorcycle insurance agent to inform you about what coverages are available to you.

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