Buying a new bike is exciting. Whether it’s your first time to get out on the open road or you’re a seasoned vet who’s looking to upgrade there are some important additional costs to consider. On top of the tax, tags, registration, delivery fees, gear, title transfer, etc., your insurance is a big one you don’t want to skimp on. This is because it could have dire consequences on your health and future. Here are some things you need to know about getting motorcycle insurance in California and how it can differ from a car.
10 Tips on Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in California
1. The minimum levels of insurance for your motorcycle are the same as for a car.
California law requires every vehicle to be insured, registered, and its operator licensed. The minimum amount of insurance in California is called a 15/30/5 policy. This means that for the injury or death of a single person, you are covered up to $15,000; for the injury or death of 2 or more people you are covered up to $30,000; and property damage is covered up to $5,000.
2. A standard car insurance policy DOESN’T cover a motorcycle
Please don’t find this out the hard way. Many people mistakenly believe that their auto insurance policy will have them covered since it’s just another vehicle. Many, if not all policies, have an “exclusion” specifically for bikes. This means your motorcycle is not covered if you’re in an accident. Although the minimum insurance limits are the same, California law requires your insurance be specific to your motorcycle.
3. Uninsured and Underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage is recommended
We strongly recommend both of these types of coverages for your motorcycle. UM and UIM coverage provide financial protection where the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover you or doesn’t have insurance at all.
The at-fault party’s insurance will cover your medical bills, bike repairs, lost wages, and related expenses. However, even minor motorcycle accidents can cause serious injury or death. The cost of a motorcycle accident injury can exceed the minimum policy of $15,000 extremely quickly, especially with medical bills. UM/UIM coverage will make up the shortfall from their policy.
As of 2012, over 4.1 million people in California drove without insurance.
4. California law requires you to carry proof of insurance while riding
It can be a hassle to bring your insurance with you every time you ride. Fines can range from $100 to $500 for repeat offenders. One recommendation is to have your proof of insurance in your wallet, gear bag, or helmet so you don’t have to think twice.
5. You cannot recover for pain and suffering after a motorcycle accident if you’re uninsured
California law states that if you’re uninsured and in an auto accident (regardless of fault), you cannot collect non-economic damages. Non-economic (or general damages) are damages like physical and mental pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and other trauma associated with the motorcycle crash.
6. Modified bikes are not covered by standard motorcycle insurance
Many riders like to modify their motorcycles. However, these modifications are not covered by your standard insurance policy. This includes aftermarket performance parts and optional modifications done after you purchased the bike. You will need to get additional coverage from your insurer for any performance modifications. Make sure to have receipts ready to demonstrate the value of any aftermarket additions to your bike.
Motorcycle riders are 5 times more likely to get into a crash than regular car drivers. It’s important to take steps to keep yourself protected before you hit the road.
If you have questions about a motorcycle accident injury claim, we can help. We will review your case for FREE. Please call us at (916) 619-5452 or fill out our form online.
