Motorcycle Insurance

Protect Your Ride with Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcycle insurance in Texas is a specialized type of insurance coverage designed to protect motorcycle owners and riders from financial losses and liabilities associated with accidents, injuries, and damage involving motorcycles. Just like auto insurance, motorcycle insurance is a legal requirement in Texas, and riders must carry a minimum level of coverage to operate their motorcycles on public roads. Here are key aspects of motorcycle insurance in Texas:

1. Minimum Coverage Requirements: Texas law mandates that motorcycle riders carry at least the following minimum insurance coverage:

   • $30,000 bodily injury liability coverage per person
   • $60,000 bodily injury liability coverage per accident
   • $25,000 property damage liability coverage per accident

2. Liability Insurance: Liability insurance is the primary coverage required by Texas law. It provides financial protection if you are found at fault in an accident that causes injuries or property damage to others. This coverage pays for the other party’s medical expenses and property repair or replacement.

3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Motorcycle riders are also required to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which helps protect you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance (underinsured) to cover your losses.

4. Optional Coverages: In addition to the mandatory coverage, motorcycle owners can purchase optional coverages to provide additional protection. These may include:

   • Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your motorcycle in the event of an accident, regardless of fault.
   • Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against theft, vandalism, fire, and damage from non-collision events like hail or falling objects.
   • Medical Payments (MedPay): Pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident, regardless of fault.
   • Accessory Coverage: Covers the cost of aftermarket accessories and custom parts added to your motorcycle.
   • Towing and Roadside Assistance: Provides coverage for towing and roadside assistance in case your motorcycle breaks down.

5. Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for motorcycle riders, such as safe rider discounts, multi-policy discounts (for bundling motorcycle and auto insurance), and discounts for completing motorcycle safety courses.

6. Safety Requirements: Texas law may require motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets and use other safety equipment, depending on their age and experience. Failure to comply with safety requirements can impact insurance coverage in the event of an accident.

7. Policy Limits and Deductibles: When purchasing motorcycle insurance, riders can choose coverage limits and deductibles that suit their needs and budget. Higher coverage limits and lower deductibles generally result in higher premiums.

8. Penalties for Lack of Insurance: Failing to carry the required motorcycle insurance in Texas can result in penalties, including fines, license suspension, and impoundment of your motorcycle.

Motorcycle insurance is essential for protecting riders, their passengers, and others on the road from the financial consequences of accidents and injuries. Riders should carefully review their insurance needs, compare quotes from multiple insurers, and choose coverage that provides appropriate protection for their specific circumstances and budget.

Why do you need insurance for your motorcycle?

You’ll enjoy being out on the open road even more when you’re not worried about the safety of yourself, your passengers or your investment. Here are a few things to consider:

• If you’re in an accident or your motorcycle is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it.
• If you or a passenger is injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive.
• If your motorcycle is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for much more than you’re worth.
• Your motorcycle may be one of your most prized possessions. It deserves special protection.

Things to consider and questions to ask your agent

Your Independent Agent is an advocate for finding insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:

• How much can I afford to pay if my motorcycle is in an accident, damaged or stolen? (Ask your agent what your cost savings would be if you raised your deductible.)
• What discounts and programs are available? (Ask about discounts for taking safety classes or having multiple policies. You may also save money if your motorcycle is stored in a garage or if you belong to a motorcycle association.)
• How much medical and liability coverage should I have?
• Does the insurance company have a good reputation for customer service? Is it known for paying claims fairly and promptly?
• What’s the process for filing and settling a claim?

Tips for the cost-conscious rider

Many factors can play a role in determining what your insurance costs will be such as your age, your driving record, where you live and the type of motorcycle you own, or being a graduate of a rider-training course.

• Many companies offer discounts from 10 to 15 percent on motorcycle insurance for graduates of training courses, such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) rider course. Riders under the age of 25, usually considered a higher risk, may see some savings by taking this course. It’s also a good idea for cyclists who have already had accidents.
• Maintaining a good driving record with no violations will also help reduce your premiums.
• In many northern states, riders may save money by buying a “lay-up” policy. With a lay-up policy, all coverage except comprehensive is suspended during winter months.
• Find out what discounts your insurance representative offers. Multi-bike discounts for those insuring more than one bike, organization discounts, if you’re a member of a motorcycle association, and mature rider discounts for experienced riders, are just a few possibilities. Discounts can range anywhere from 10 percent to 20 percent, depending on the company and your state. Availability and qualifications for discounts vary from company to company and state to state.
• Keep in mind that the type, style (such as a sports bike vs. a cruiser) and age of the motorcycle, as well as the number of miles you drive a year and where you store your bike may also affect how much you pay for your premium.