Shaaban & Biedgoly

When riding motorcycles, it’s crucial to have the right motorcycle insurance not just to comply with the law but to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident. Many people don’t realize they need more insurance coverage until it’s too late. Motorcycle insurance policies vary in terms of coverage options and requirements, so understanding the different components of these policies can help you make an informed decision.

Common Misconception About Motorcycle Insurance

“I don’t need a lot of insurance because I wouldn’t cause that much damage if I hit someone.” While this is true in many cases, people forget to think about the other side of the situation. Because motorcycle accidents generally result in severe injuries the motorcyclist, the amount of damages are usually large. If a motorcyclist is hit by someone with the bare minimum insurance limits (or no insurance at all), they want to make sure they have enough insurance available in addition to the at-fault party’s insurance.

Motorcycle insurance is also required by law in nearly every state, including California, and ensures you have coverage in case of accidents, theft, or damage. Motorcycles are inherently riskier than cars due to their design, which makes insurance even more critical. Failing to have insurance in place can result in fines, penalties, and even a suspension of your motorcycle license. In the event of a motorcycle accident , not having adequate insurance can leave you financially responsible for medical costs, damage to property, and legal liabilities.

Types of Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

When shopping for motorcycle insurance, you’ll encounter several types of coverage options. Each serves a specific purpose, and a combination of them provides the best overall protection. Below are the key types of coverage available:

1. Liability Coverage

Liability insurance covers the costs if you cause damage to someone else’s property or injure another person. It doesn’t cover your own injuries or motorcycle. Liability coverage is usually divided into two parts:

• Bodily Injury Liability: Covers injuries you cause to other individuals in an accident.
• Property Damage Liability: Covers damage to others’ property in a crash.

California, has minimum coverage requirements, but a motorcycle accident attorney will tell you that it’s often a good idea to purchase more than the minimum to protect yourself from lawsuits.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This type of coverage is particularly important if you have a newer or high-value bike. However, collision coverage typically involves a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

This type of coverage protects your bike against non-collision-related incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Theft and damage can occur anywhere, making comprehensive coverage an essential consideration for any motorcycle owner.

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

In a motorcycle accident, if the other driver lacks sufficient insurance to cover the damages, UM/UIM coverage ensures you’re not left with the bill. This is crucial for motorcyclists since not everyone on the road carries adequate insurance. A motorcycle accident attorney would often recommend having this as a safeguard against the unpredictable.

5. Medical Payments (MedPay)

MedPay coverage helps pay for medical bills related to injuries sustained during a motorcycle accident. This coverage is generally considered “no-fault” and will cover your medical expenses (up to your Medical Payments policy limit) regardless of who was at fault for the accident. While California doesn’t require this coverage, it’s a smart choice for motorcyclists who want to avoid paying out-of-pocket medical expenses in case of an accident.

6. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP goes beyond medical payments and may cover other related expenses such as lost wages and rehabilitation costs. This can be a significant asset, especially if you’re involved in a severe accident that leaves you unable to work for an extended period.

Factors Influencing Your Insurance Rates

Several factors contribute to the cost of motorcycle insurance. Understanding these can help you find the best rates without sacrificing necessary coverage.

• Bike Type: The make, model, and engine size of your motorcycle will affect your insurance premiums. Sports bikes and motorcycles with larger engines often cost more to insure due to their higher speeds and accident risk.
• Riding History: Your past driving record plays a significant role in determining your rates. A clean driving record often results in lower premiums, whereas accidents, speeding tickets, and other violations may raise your rates.
• Location: Where you live influences your premiums. Areas with higher rates of accidents and theft will typically see higher insurance costs.
• Age and Experience: Younger, less experienced riders usually pay more for insurance. However, seasoned riders with safety course certifications can often qualify for discounts.
• Coverage Choices: The extent of coverage you choose will also directly affect your premiums. Opting for higher liability limits or adding comprehensive and collision coverage will raise your costs but offer more protection.

Customization and Add-ons

Motorcyclists often customize their bikes, adding everything from custom paint to high-performance parts. Most basic insurance policies don’t cover these modifications, which is why it’s important to add coverage for custom parts and accessories. Additionally, some insurers offer add-ons like roadside assistance and trip interruption coverage, which can be lifesavers if you’re stranded far from home.

Discounts on Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcyclists can take advantage of several discounts when purchasing motorcycle insurance. Here are some of the most common:

• Safe Riding Discounts: A clean driving record and completion of motorcycle safety courses can lead to discounts.
• Multi-Policy Discounts: If you bundle your motorcycle insurance with other types of insurance like auto or home, you can often save on premiums.
• Anti-theft Devices: Installing anti-theft devices on your motorcycle can reduce the risk for insurers and may earn you a discount.
• Military and Law Enforcement Discounts: Some insurers offer discounts to active or retired military personnel and law enforcement officers.

Legal Considerations for Motorcycle Riders

Even with adequate insurance, legal issues can arise if you’re involved in an accident. Having a motorcycle accident attorney in Folsom can help navigate the aftermath, from dealing with insurance companies to filing personal injury claims. An attorney can ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, here are key steps to take:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to be evaluated by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, damage to your bike, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be crucial in filing a claim or lawsuit.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible, providing them with all relevant information.
4. Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Consulting with Shaaban & Biedgoly a motorcycle accident attorney in Folsom can help you understand your rights, evaluate the fairness of the insurance settlement, and determine if you have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.

Understanding motorcycle insurance is vital for every motorcycle rider. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, ensuring you have the right coverage will give you peace of mind on the road. Additionally, having a trusted motorcycle accident attorney at Shaaban & Biedgoly in Folsom ensures that, in the event of an accident, you’re fully prepared to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. With the right insurance and legal support, you can confidently enjoy the open road without worrying about the “what ifs.”

Contact Shaaban today for your free motorcycle accident and motorcycle insurance consultation!