Opting out of Certain Motorcycle Coverage Can Save You Money

As a smart rider, you understand the benefits of carrying motorcycle insurance, and you’re always on the lookout for a policy that can save you money. It’s obvious that the premium on a high-powered designer motorbike with custom upgrades will be much higher than a small or medium-size pre-owned bike. Do your research ahead of time so you don’t end up paying for unnecessary coverage.

How much insurance do you need and which plan works the best for your bike and your bank account? Here are several plans you can opt out of to save money:

Medical coverage. In the event of an accident where you sustained bodily injuries, medical coverage can pay for the treatment you receive, regardless of who is at fault. However, if you are currently under your employer’s health insurance plan, purchasing an additional medical coverage plan on your insurance policy can be a needless expense. This plan is beneficial for riders who don’t currently have health insurance.

Guest passenger liability. In the event of an accident where you were at fault, you could be liable for any injuries that your passenger suffers. However, if you’re a weekend warrior who loves to ride solo, guest passenger coverage may be an unnecessary expense, and you can forego this type of coverage. In some states, this coverage may be mandatory, so speak to your insurance agent to determine if you can opt out.

Towing and roadside assistance. If your beloved bike is too mangled to ride after a crash, roadside assistance can come in handy to tow your motorcycle and help you obtain a replacement vehicle. However, if you currently are a member of a motor club, you’ll be paying double if you add this coverage onto your insurance policy.

Risk is real. You need motorcycle insurance not only to protect your investment, but also your bank account. Talk to your insurance agent to determine which coverage is required for your state and which you can opt out to keep more money in your wallet.

Save on Insurance for Your Bike with Motorcycle Safety Courses

We’ve all taken driver safety courses in high school when we were preparing to get our license and we were just learning the rules of the road. You may think the days of vehicle safety courses are long behind you, especially if you’re the owner of a motorcycle, but these classes could do more than potentially save your life. They could save you money on your insurance policy premiums.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2001 and 2008, more than 34,000 motorcyclists were killed and nearly 1,222,000 persons were treated in a U.S. emergency room for motorcycle related injuries that were non-fatal. With the rate of riders in the United States on the rise, motorcyclist fatalities and accidents are becoming a matter of public health concern. This has led many motorcycle organizations to institute “Share the Road” campaigns and to also remind riders of the importance of wearing helmets.

Motorcycle safety courses go a long way toward protecting riders as well as looking out for the well-being of other vehicles on the road. In addition to these safety benefits, here are several ways these classes work to the rider’s advantage:

·         Most insurance carriers offer incentives for completing these courses. Some may provide up to 15 percent off your premiums. Speak with your agent to learn about the incentives they offer for completing the course.

·         Many states offer free or very affordable courses. Check with your local DMV for specifics.

·         Classes help riders improve their skills and confidence while operating a motorcycle.

·         Safety classes are not lengthy, lasting one to three days in many states.

With the freedom to ride your motorbike wherever you wish comes personal responsibility. Invest not only in your safety, but in your savings by taking a motorcycle safety course.