Insurance Coverage for Your Ride

Insurance Coverage for Your Ride

Did you know that May is Bike Month? It is and we wanted to take the time to help all of our bikers out there. From those that take the local trails on their bicycles, those of you that hit the streets in your Vespa or scooter, and of course the motorcycle riders. Bike Month is the perfect time to talk safety, riding, and, of course, insurance.

Most of the month we will be focusing on motorcycle riders and their motorcycle insurance needs, but today let’s talk about those that enjoy being on other forms of two wheels (sorry no unicycle content). Fingers crossed, the weather is getting warmer and we all want to be out there on the road soaking up the sun somehow. Some of us, who can’t even handle a bicycle, will be sticking to an afternoon stroll.

Here’s a breakdown for insurance coverage on the most popular bikes this time of year:

Insurance Coverage for Your Bicycles:

Bicycles are personal property and covered for basic perils: theft for example, under a homeowner or renters policy, subject to deductible of course!  There are many bicycles today that have a very high sticker price.  Many carriers today will schedule a bicycle; providing very broad coverage.  An average cost is $7.00 per $100 in value. It may be worth it for those avid bike riders. Especially, if you aren’t so great about locking your bike up, it’s good to know you have the added coverage you need.

Insurance Coverage for Dirt Bikes:

Dirt bikes would best be covered by an off-road vehicle insurance policy. They aren’t allowed on the road so there is no confusion like you may read about below with which category they fall into. Along with ATVs, this insurance can offer coverage for collision, comprehensive, and liability, much like your car insurance. If you find yourself needing more coverage in some areas, an agent can help you design a dirt bike insurance policy that is right for you.

 

Insurance Coverage for Vespas and Scooters:

When it comes to insurance for your Vespa or scooter, things can get very tricky. In fact, a lot of your insurance needs are not black and white and will be determined based on your states’ laws and rules, not just insurance carrier’s rules.

Coverage depends on several factors, some of those factors are: usage, whether or not registration is required, and the maximum speed of the device. In the event that you are calling your agent about coverage for your Vespa or scooter, be sure to have this information handy so they can help you sort through your needs. The person that sold you your scooter may tell you that insurance isn’t necessary, but most go beyond 30mph and this qualifies them for a special registration. They don’t necessarily fit in the category of motorized scooters all of the time, but they may not make the cut for the motorcycle category either. Read more about “limited use vehicles” in the moped category, that may be where your Vespa or scooter falls.

Insurance for Mopeds:

A moped must also have an automatic transmission, an engine capacity that doesn’t exceed 50 cc, and can’t go faster than 30 mph. You would need to be registered to drive one of these on the streets. You can utilize bike lanes on the roads, but would not be allowed on bike paths. Mopeds may qualify for the “limited use” category. This is defined by vehicles that travel faster than 30mph, but slower than 40mph. It must meet federal safety certification, be titled, inspected, and registered with the RMV. There is a distinct plate for these type of vehicles. The type of registration your moped requires will be a huge factor in just how to get the right insurance coverage for your moped. Some research, hopefully some answers from the RMV and the dealer, and help from your agent and you should be on the road in no time.

 

Insurance Coverage for Your Bike Accessories:

If you ride with the kids you may have one of the tons of variations you can attach to your bicycle to bring them along. Let’s face it if the kids are coming you may even have various containers or bags attached to your bag to also bring all of the things you will need to keep them happy on your trip. All of these things will be covered on your home insurance policy under your personal possessions coverage, just like your bike.

Questions about where your mode of transportation falls? Our agents can help you sort through the confusion of the right way to register and insure your bike. It’s important to have answers to your questions and the right coverage before you ride. Call us at 888.865.1244.

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