Motorcycle Insurance for Summer Bikers

Do you enjoy riding your motorcycle in the warmer weather, but would rather store your bike during the winter cold? Many people in this situation believe that cancelling their motorcycle insurance during the winter is a good way to save money since their bike is not in use anyway. However, this is not a good decision. Why not?

Even while away from the risks of being on the road, motorcycles are still susceptible to theft, vandalism, fire etc. This sort of damage will not be covered if your insurance policy lapses. In some states, owning a registered vehicle that goes uninsured may result in fines, suspension of your vehicle’s registration or even suspension of driver’s license. Depending on your insurance carrier, if you cancel coverage, you may not be able to claim first party benefits, such as medical expenses and lost wages, even if you are injured in a vehicle that is insured. This provision is designed to prevent you from receiving benefits unless you have the ability to provide them to another.

It’s clear that maintaining motorcycle insurance is important, even through the winter months. But it’s likely that you still want the savings you were planning on. Did you know that you can still save while maintaining coverage? Call your agent to ask if you’re eligible for the following discount options:

• Reduce your coverage to the state-mandated minimum during the winter. You won’t need collision coverage if you’re not on the road, but you may still need liability and comprehensive.
• Increase your deductible to lower your monthly premium. It’s recommended that you set your deductible to the highest amount you could afford at any given time; the higher you go, the lower your monthly premium may be.
• Bundle your motorcycle insurance with your auto and/or home insurance. Insurers often offer discounts for people who bundle two or more policies together with the same company.
• Installing anti-theft devices and/or safety features can lead to year-round savings on motorcycle insurance.

Until you and your bike can be reunited on the open road, keep it protected in case the unexpected should occur. In the meantime, you can take the money you saved on insurance and buy some cool new motorcycle gear to use in the spring.