Jeffrey Wade
If you're planning to buy a motorcycle, it's important to understand the process of getting it insured. While it's not mandatory to have insurance before purchasing a motorcycle, it's illegal to ride it on public roads without insurance in most states. The specifics of insurance requirements and grace periods vary across states and insurance companies, so it's essential to do your research. Obtaining a quote and understanding the coverage options, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist protection, is a crucial first step. Calling your insurance company with the VIN beforehand can provide peace of mind, and some companies may offer temporary coverage for new purchases. It's recommended to shop around and compare prices from multiple insurance providers to find the best policy and price for your needs and lifestyle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to call insurance company | Before purchase, especially if you plan to ride it home. |
| How to call | By phone or online. |
| What to ask for | A quote, using the bike's VIN. |
| How long it takes | A few minutes. |
| When to start coverage | After purchase. |
| What happens if you don't buy the bike | Cancel the policy and obtain a refund. |
| What if you don't have a VIN | You can still get a quote online from larger companies. |
| What if you already have insurance with the company | You may be automatically covered for 30 days. |
| What insurance to get | Depends on your state, whether you're financing the purchase, and your personal needs. |
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What You'll Learn
Get a quote using the bike's VIN
If you're planning to buy a motorcycle, it's a good idea to get an insurance quote before you finalise the purchase. This will allow you to understand the costs involved and ensure you can ride your new bike home. While you can get a quote without owning the bike, you'll need to provide certain details, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies each motorcycle. It can usually be found stamped into the steering neck, just behind the front forks. On bikes with headlights, look just below the handlebar area. Scooter VINs may be found on frame rails, often hidden beneath body panels, or on a VIN plate or sticker on the frame.
By running a VIN check, you can learn about the motorcycle's history and specifications. This includes the year, make, model, original colour, number of previous owners, mileage, maintenance records, accident and damage history, title and registration status, theft and recovery incidents, and past recalls. This information can help you make an informed decision about the purchase and ensure there are no hidden problems or risks.
To get an insurance quote using the bike's VIN, you can call or contact your chosen insurance company online. Provide them with the VIN and any other relevant details, and they will be able to provide you with a quote. It is recommended to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to get the best policy and price for your needs.
Once you have decided to purchase the motorcycle, finalise the insurance by providing any additional required information, such as the mileage and any alarm systems. Starting the policy can be as simple as a quick phone call, and you can be covered before you ride your new bike home.
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Call your insurance company to finalise coverage
While it is possible to purchase a motorcycle without insurance, it is illegal to ride it without insurance in almost every state. Therefore, it is important to finalise your insurance coverage before riding your new motorcycle.
To finalise your insurance coverage, you should call your insurance company. Before calling, it is a good idea to have the details of the motorcycle to hand, including its make, model, year, and VIN. You should also have a credit card ready to finalise payment.
When you call your insurance company, you can ask for a quote based on the specific motorcycle you are looking to purchase. You can then finalise the details of the policy, including the level of coverage and any add-ons you may require. For example, you may wish to add comprehensive coverage, which will protect your motorcycle in the event of fire, theft, or weather damage. Alternatively, you may wish to add uninsured motorist coverage, which will protect you in the event that you are in an accident with an uninsured driver.
It is important to compare quotes from multiple insurance companies before finalising your coverage. By calling different insurers, you can find the best policy and price for your needs. You may also wish to consider any existing policies you have and whether you can bundle your motorcycle insurance with these for a better deal.
Finally, once you have found the right policy and provided all the necessary information, you can finalise your coverage by providing payment details and agreeing to the terms of the policy. This will ensure that you are insured and able to ride your new motorcycle legally.
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Check how many days you have to get insurance on a new vehicle
The number of days you have to get insurance on a new vehicle depends on several factors, including your location, the insurance company, and the type of vehicle you are purchasing. Here is some information regarding the timeframe for getting insurance on a new vehicle:
Grace Periods:
Many insurance companies offer a grace period, which typically ranges from seven to 30 days, during which your new vehicle is covered under your existing policy. This grace period allows you time to notify your insurance company about the new vehicle and make any necessary adjustments to your policy. It is important to note that the grace period usually provides the same level of coverage as your previous vehicle, so if your new vehicle requires additional coverage, you should consider purchasing it before driving your new vehicle.
Dealership Requirements:
When purchasing a vehicle from a dealership, they may require you to provide proof of insurance before allowing you to drive the vehicle off the lot. Some dealerships may offer assistance in finding insurance or provide a computer for you to obtain coverage. It is a good idea to call your insurance company and get a quote before finalising the purchase so that you can drive your new vehicle home with the appropriate coverage.
Private Seller Considerations:
When buying a vehicle from a private seller, they typically will not request proof of insurance before releasing the vehicle to you. However, it is essential to obtain insurance as soon as possible, as driving without insurance is illegal in most states and can result in legal consequences and financial liabilities if you are involved in an accident.
Obtaining Quotes:
You can obtain insurance quotes before purchasing the vehicle by providing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to insurance companies. This will allow you to compare rates and choose the best policy for your needs. It is recommended to shop around and consider bundling your auto insurance with other policies, such as homeowner's or renter's insurance, to get the best price.
In summary, while there is no definitive number of days you have to get insurance on a new vehicle, it is essential to act promptly. Obtain quotes in advance, understand the grace periods offered by your insurance company, and finalise the insurance purchase as soon as possible after acquiring your new vehicle to ensure you are legally compliant and adequately protected.
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Compare prices of different companies
Comparing prices and coverage across different insurance companies is a crucial step in purchasing motorcycle insurance. While motorcycle insurance is generally cheaper than car insurance, the price can vary depending on factors such as the type of motorcycle, the rider's driving history, and the chosen insurance provider. Here are some key considerations when comparing prices across different companies:
Understanding Coverage Options
Before comparing prices, it is essential to understand the different types of coverage available. Motorcycle insurance typically includes liability coverage, which covers damages or injuries to others in an accident. Some states legally require liability coverage, and if you are financing or leasing your motorcycle, full coverage, including collision and comprehensive insurance, may be mandated. Other coverage options to consider include bodily injury, personal injury protection, property damage, uninsured/underinsured motorists, and accessory coverage for any additional extras or modifications made to your motorcycle.
Comparing Quotes
Once you understand the coverage options, you can start comparing quotes from different insurance companies. Ensure that you are comparing similar coverage options across companies. Pay attention to the deductibles and premiums offered, as a higher deductible can lead to lower insurance premiums. Additionally, consider any optional coverages, exclusions, and limitations. For example, standard policies may not cover modifications and custom parts, so you may need to purchase additional coverage.
Company Reputation and Customer Satisfaction
In addition to price and coverage, consider the reputation and customer satisfaction of the insurance company. Review third-party ratings, financial strength, claims satisfaction, and customer testimonials on sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and Consumer Affairs. This will give you insights into the company's reliability and how they handle claims and customer service.
Discounts and Savings Opportunities
Different insurance companies may offer various discounts and savings opportunities. For example, you may be eligible for discounts if you complete a motorcycle safety course, install an anti-theft device, or bundle your motorcycle insurance with other policies such as home or car insurance. Compare the discounts offered by different companies to see where you can make the most savings.
State-Specific Requirements
Remember that motorcycle insurance requirements can vary by state. Be sure to review the specific requirements for your state, including minimum liability limits, to ensure that you are complying with the law and have adequate coverage.
By following these steps and comparing prices and coverage across different insurance companies, you can make an informed decision when purchasing motorcycle insurance, ensuring that you get the best value for your money and the protection you need.
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Check what type of insurance is required in your state
It is important to understand your state's motorcycle insurance requirements to ensure compliance and safety on the road. Most states require motorcyclists to carry some amount of insurance on their bikes. However, the specific type of insurance and coverage limits can vary by state.
For example, some states mandate only liability coverage, while others require additional types of coverage, such as personal injury protection (PIP) or uninsured motorist coverage. PIP coverage, which varies in availability by state, may also include lost wages and other benefits. Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover the difference if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Additionally, certain states may allow alternatives to traditional insurance. For instance, you may be able to file a certificate of financial responsibility demonstrating assets equal to or greater than the minimum required coverage limits.
To find out the specific insurance requirements for your state, you can visit reputable insurance company websites or contact a licensed independent agent or insurance representative for guidance. They will be able to provide you with expert advice and help you navigate the process of obtaining the necessary coverage for your motorcycle.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you need to own the vehicle before insuring it. However, some insurance companies cover you automatically on a new purchase for up to 30 days.
You will need the motorcycle's VIN, make, model, year, and mileage. You will also need to know if it has an alarm system.
You can call your insurance company or get a quote online. It is recommended that you call at least three insurance companies to get the best policy and price for yourself.
The type of insurance you need depends on your state's laws, how risk-averse you are, your driving record, and your budget. In most states, you will need liability insurance, and if you are financing your motorcycle, you will need collision or comprehensive insurance.
