Motorcycle Insurance: Missouri Requirements

In the state of Missouri, motorcycle insurance is required by law. Riders must be able to show proof of insurance before registering their motorcycle, and when renewing their license plates. The minimum coverage required by state law is $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000-$25,000 per accident for property damage. If a rider is unable to show proof of insurance when requested by a law enforcement officer, they may be issued a ticket.

Missouri motorcycle insurance requirements

Missouri law requires that all motor vehicle drivers and owners maintain some type of motor vehicle liability insurance coverage. This means that you must show proof of insurance when registering a vehicle and when renewing license plates. The minimum level of coverage required by state law is:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 per accident for property damage

The law also requires you to have uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident.

While Missouri has higher coverage requirements than some states, an accident that results in a serious injury could quickly exceed these limits. When your policy falls short, you will be responsible for all additional costs, potentially draining your life savings, whether you are at fault or not. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you carry a higher level of coverage than the state minimums.

In addition to the basic liability coverage, you may also want to consider additional coverage options to protect yourself and your bike, such as collision coverage, uninsured/under-insured motorist coverage, comprehensive coverage, bodily injury coverage, and medical payment coverage. These additional coverage options can provide financial protection in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Penalties for riding uninsured

Riding a motorcycle without insurance in Missouri can result in various penalties, including fines and license suspension. The specific consequences for non-compliance depend on the number of prior violations and the circumstances of the violation. Here is a breakdown of the penalties for riding uninsured in Missouri:

• First violation: If you have no previous record of riding uninsured, you will face a reinstatement fee of $20 and must submit proof of insurance. Your license and/or driving privileges may be suspended.
• Second violation within two years: For a second violation within a two-year period, your license will be suspended for 90 days. You will also be required to pay a reinstatement fee of $200 and submit proof of insurance.
• Three or more violations: If you are caught riding uninsured for the third time or more, your license will be suspended for one year. To reinstate your license, you will need to pay a $400 reinstatement fee and provide proof of insurance.
• Involvement in an accident: If you are involved in an accident while riding uninsured, you will be responsible for paying out-of-pocket vehicle repair and medical costs. In addition, your license and/or license plates may be suspended for failing to maintain insurance.
• Failure to show proof of insurance: If a law enforcement officer requests proof of insurance and you cannot provide it, they may issue you a ticket. The court may enter an order of supervision or suspend your driver's license. The conviction will be entered on your driving record, and you will be assessed four points. Accumulating eight points within an 18-month period can result in losing your driving privileges in Missouri.
• Suspension periods: The length of suspension increases with the number of violations. For the first suspension, there are no days of suspension. The second suspension in two years will result in a 90-day suspension, while the third and subsequent suspensions will lead to a one-year suspension.
• Reinstatement requirements: After serving the suspension period, you must submit proof of insurance and pay the corresponding reinstatement fee to the Driver License Bureau to reinstate your driver's license and/or license plates.
• Proof of insurance maintenance: Following the end of the suspension, you must maintain and file proof of insurance with the Department of Revenue for three years. Failure to do so will result in another suspension.
• Accident reporting: Accidents that occur in Missouri must be reported to the Driver License Bureau if they happened less than a year ago, involved an uninsured motorist, and caused property damage exceeding $500 or resulted in injury or death.
• Notice of Suspension: If the Director of Revenue determines that a motorist involved in an accident is uninsured, they will mail a Notice of Suspension, including the reason, effective date, and procedure for requesting a hearing.
• Suspension for failure to maintain insurance with an accident involved: If your driving privilege or license plates are suspended due to a lack of insurance and an accident occurred, the suspension periods will vary based on the number of violations. For the first suspension, there are no days of suspension; the second suspension results in a 90-day suspension, and the third suspension leads to a one-year suspension.
• Reinstatement after an accident: To reinstate your driver's license and/or license plates after a suspension due to an accident, you must provide proof of liability insurance (commonly an SR-22 filing), pay a reinstatement fee, and maintain proof of insurance for three years.
• Suspension for failure to pay damages: If you are at fault in an accident and fail to pay for the damages, your driver's license and/or license plates will be suspended for one year. You can reinstate them within this period by paying a $20 reinstatement fee and providing proof of settlement to the Driver License Bureau.

The cost of motorcycle insurance in Missouri

In addition to the level of coverage, other factors such as the motorcycle model, riding history, age, and years of experience can also impact the cost of motorcycle insurance in Missouri. On average, a full-coverage policy in the state costs $496 annually, while a liability-only policy costs $225 per year.

The best motorcycle insurance companies in Missouri

Yes, motorcycle insurance is required in Missouri. You must show proof of insurance before registering your motorcycle. Failure to do so can result in fines and license suspension. If you are in an accident without insurance, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for vehicle repairs and medical costs.

Progressive

Progressive is the best motorcycle insurance option for most riders in Missouri. It offers a great balance of affordability and extensive coverage. Progressive's annual rate in Missouri is $623 per year, which is 39% cheaper than the state average.

Progressive also offers a wide range of extra coverage options, including enhanced injury protection, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, and roadside assistance. You can also get a variety of discounts, such as for completing a safety course, bundling policies, or switching from another company.

Allstate

Allstate is the best option for riders seeking great customer service. It has the state's best customer service ratings, along with strong coverage options. Allstate received a 0.63 rating in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) complaint index, meaning it received only 63% of the expected number of complaints for a company its size.

Allstate's coverage options include protections for your trailer and accessories, towing, full replacement cost coverage on newer bikes, and rental reimbursement. Riders can also get discounts for owning a home, taking a safety course, or installing a recovery device on their motorcycle.

Nationwide

Nationwide offers the lowest rates for motorcycle insurance in Missouri, with an average rate of $526 per year. It also boasts some of the best customer service ratings in the state, receiving a 0.68 rating in the NAIC complaint index.

Nationwide offers OEM parts coverage, custom equipment coverage, and roadside assistance. Riders can also take advantage of a range of discounts, including multipolicy and multivehicle discounts.

GEICO

GEICO is the most affordable option for liability-only coverage, with an average annual rate of $124. It offers convenience through its online quoting tool and mobile app, which allows policyholders to access proof of insurance, find nearby gas stations, pay bills, change coverage, and chat with an agent. GEICO also offers various payment channels and methods, as well as accessories coverage and towing and labour coverage.

Markel

Markel is another great option for motorcycle insurance in Missouri. It offers multiple discount opportunities, such as a 10% discount for switching to Markel and additional discounts for safety features like anti-lock brakes and anti-theft alarms. Markel also offers the "so long" deductible, which reduces your deductible by 25% for every consecutive accident-free year, and the option to add roadside assistance and trip interruption coverage for a low additional cost.

How to get a motorcycle insurance quote in Missouri

Yes, motorcycle insurance is required in Missouri. You must show proof of insurance before registering your motorcycle. Failure to do so can result in penalties such as fines and license suspension. If you are in an accident without insurance, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for vehicle repairs and medical costs.

Online

Many insurance companies in Missouri, such as Nationwide, offer the option to get a quote online. You can visit their website and fill in the required details to get a quote.

By Phone

You can also get a quote by calling the insurance company. Nationwide, for example, provides a toll-free number, 1-877-669-6877, that you can call to get a quote. Other companies, like Accurate Auto Insurance, also provide a phone number for instant quotes.

Through an Agent

Some insurance companies, including Nationwide, give you the option to speak with a local agent to get a quote.

Using Quote Software

Certain companies, like Accurate Auto Insurance, have innovative quote software that can help you get a quote quickly. You can enter your zip code, and the software will help narrow down your options to find the best solution for your needs.

Comparing Quotes

You can also compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best option for you. Websites like ValuePenguin allow you to compare quotes from multiple insurers in Missouri, including Progressive, Nationwide, Geico, Dairyland, and Allstate.

It is important to note that the cost of motorcycle insurance in Missouri can vary depending on where you live. For example, Kansas City has the most expensive rate in the state, while Hannibal and Poplar Bluff have the cheapest. Additionally, you may be eligible for discounts based on factors such as bundling policies, completing safety courses, or being a member of specific groups.

Remember to consider your unique needs as a motorcyclist when choosing an insurance policy, and make sure to comply with Missouri's legal requirements for motorcycle insurance.

Frequently asked questions