Reader question:

Do I have to get my motorcycle insured?

Mario

It depends on what state you are in.

Motorcycles are in the realm of cars and other vehicles in that a lot of states in the U.S. require that they are insured with car insurance coverage. There are some states where you don’t have to get them insured, or are only required to insure them when you are using them, so check with your state department of insurance to find out if you are in one of these states. Even if your state does not require motorcycle insurance for your bike, I would still suggest that you get it. The reason I say that is because you are in a lot more danger on a bike, if you get into a crash it will be more easily totaled, and it’s probably a luxury item that you had to save up to get, so why not protect it, right?

If you do intend to (or have to) get motorcycle insurance for your bike, think about what its actual worth is. If it would be less than what you are paying for insurance, then don’t get it unless you have to. Here’s some advice.

• While there are companies out there that offer policies for motorcycle insurance alone, often the cheapest car insurance rates can be gotten by adding your motorcycle to a car insurance policy that you already have.
• Motorcycles are notoriously dangerous, so if you put some safety features on yours, your car insurance company will give you lower collision rates.
• When you get your bike, get it from one of the more popular sellers. The reason for this is that if it gets damaged, you want to be able to get cheap parts so you can get better rates.
• Motorcycles get stolen a lot, so get lots of anti theft security.
• If you live in cold areas, you can often get better winter rates by getting yourself a lay up.
• Become a member of a group for bike owners. These usually offer car insurance discounts for their members.

Cheers,

Fashun Guadarrama.

耄䲐