Some people assume that their car insurance policies will automatically provide coverage for their motorcycles, but they are mistaken. Many motorists confuse the fact that they can legally register and get a license plate for their motorcycles with the type of insurance that they need to legally ride their bikes. In order to safely and legally ride a motorcycle, you will need the right type of coverage.

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There are two ways to get insurance for your motorcycle. If you have an existing car insurance policy, you can get what is called a motorcycle endorsement. This is simply an extension of your policy that allows you to insure your bike. Remember that motorcycle endorsements are not the same as getting full coverage.

For motorists that do not want to purchase a separate policy, motorcycle endorsements can be convenient. If you are only an occasional rider, you might not be concerned with comprehensive coverage. However, if your motorcycle is your main mode of transportation, purchasing a separate motorcycle insurance policy is best.

How do you purchase a motorcycle insurance policy?

Since most car insurance providers also insure motorcycles, getting a new policy is fairly easy. You can inquire about motorcycle coverage with your insurance agent to find out more about rates. Alternatively, you can shop around for quotes and get your motorcycle insurance policy through another insurance provider.

Is wearing a helmet necessary?

One of the very first questions that insurance companies will ask when you apply for motorcycle insurance quotes is whether or not you wear a helmet. In some states, driving a motorcycle while wearing a helmet is the law. Most states also require passengers to wear a helmet while riding on the back of motorcycles at all times.

If you happen to live in a state that does not require motorcycle drivers to wear a helmet, you need to be aware of the potential risks you face. If you ever get into an accident, your injuries will likely be serious. Beyond having higher motorcycle insurance rates, riding without a helmet on is just plain dangerous.

Can you add a motorcycle onto an existing car insurance policy?

The only way you will be able to add motorcycle coverage onto an existing auto insurance policy is if your insurance company offers endorsements. Your car insurance provider must also be in the business of insuring motorcycles.

If you end up purchasing a separate policy from the same car insurance company, you will have to list all drivers and provider your driver’s license number. Expect to answer the same types of questions that you were asked when you initially purchased your car insurance policy.

Do you need a special license to drive a motorcycle?

In most cases a permit, an endorsement, or a motorcycle permit is needed to operate a motorcycle. In addition, you will need proof of insurance before you will be able to go out on the road. This is where a lot of motorcyclists go wrong. Virtually anyone can purchase a motorcycle; however, they need to register their motorcycles with the DMV within 30 days. Temporary tags can be issued within days, but you cannot legally drive your motorcycle until you have taken care of all of the requirements.

Getting a motorcycle license entails taking both a written and a physical exam. You can attend a driving school in order to learn, however, your motorcycle license can only be issued by the DMV. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides motorcyclists with informational pamphlets and illustrations detailing how to drive a motorcycle safely.

Is motorcycle insurance expensive?

Motorcycle insurance rates are calculated in a manner that is similar to car insurance. If you are under the age of 25, have had several accidents, and don’t have much experience riding motorcycles, you can expect to pay high insurance premiums. Some insurance companies see motorcycle insurance as such a high risk that they do not extend coverage to certain drivers.

The type of motorcycle that you want to insure will also have an impact on your rates. Racing motorcycles with powerful engines are much more expensive to insure than casual riding bikes.

The best way to keep your motorcycle insurance premiums lower is to compare rates. Once you have found at least three or four companies that extend motorcycle coverage, you can start getting quotes. This should give you enough information to determine what type of coverage you can realistically afford.

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