Motorcycles are a bit different than other passenger vehicles. Though they get you from Point A to Point B, they require a bit more skill and concentration to drive and are more susceptible to certain hazards that may just be a minor annoyance to drivers of a car or truck.
Not only is having motorcycle insurance a good idea, it’s also a required by Wisconsin state law if you plan on taking it out on to the open road. Read on to learn a bit about motorcycle safety, as well as Wisconsin motorcycle insurance requirements.
Motorcycle Safety & Insurance
Motorcycle Hazards
What Is the Most Common Motorcycle Hazard?
Inattentive drivers are a big hazard to motorcyclists. In particular, drivers in passenger vehicles simply not seeing a motorcyclist. However, other vehicles they aren’t the only risk. Loss of traction and running into fixed objects are another common hazard. As you can imagine, they are also much more dangerous on a motorcycle than in a vehicle and result in many injuries and deaths every year. Speeding and use of alcohol also contribute to many other fatal single-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles.
What Other Risks Should Wisconsin Motorcyclists be Aware of?
On the road, minor weather incidents can turn out to be huge problems for motorcyclists. For example, a spring frost, summer thunderstorm or a sudden gust of wind can cause motorcycles to lose control. Hail can also be very dangerous for motorcyclists. Because of this, motorcyclists should pay particular attention to weather forecasts before heading out on the road.
Does Wearing a Helmet Actually Help?
Yes, wearing a helmet might just save your life in the case of an accident, as head injuries are a leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents. Riders who do not wear helmets and crash are 40-percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury. Study after study has determined that whether or not a rider was wearing a helmet was the single most important factor in preventing and reducing head and neck injuries.
Motorcycle Insurance
Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin state law requires that motorcycles owners carry a minimum amount of $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury insurance (BI) and at least $10,000 for property damage liability insurance (PD). As with automobile insurance, Bodily Injury provides liability coverage should you be found negligent for the injury or death of another. The first number ($25,000) represents the amount of coverage in place on a per-person basis, while the second number ($50,000) represents to maximum coverage per accident. While this is the minimum coverage required by law, it is quite common to carry higher limits to provide the protection you actually need.
Property Damage coverage is there to pay for damage that you cause to the property of others. Most commonly this would be a car or cycle, as in the case of a two-vehicle accident. But it would also pay for damage that you cause to a fence, house, or other property.
What Other Coverage Is Available for Motorcycles?
There are many other coverages offered for motorcycles in addition to what is required by state law. Such insurance options include, but are not limited to, collision coverage, comprehensive insurance coverage, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, medical payments, and more. Coverage options, and deductibles will vary based on the insurance company providing the coverage.
What Accessories and Modifications Are Covered by a Standard Motorcycle Policy?
Any post-manufacturer accessories or modifications added to a motorcycle may not be covered by your standard insurance policy. You may need to purchase additional insurance, often referred to as “additional accessory coverage”, for such improvements as a new paint job, custom exhaust, or excessive aftermarket chrome. When talking to your agent, let them know about any modifications you’ve made and ask about how much additional coverage you might need to buy.
What Happens to Insurance During the Winter Months?
Unfortunately, Wisconsin winters mean motorcycle owners have to put their bikes into storage for as many as many as six or seven months. While some ask about discontinuing collision and liability coverage during these times, we recommend leaving coverage in place. The reason for this is that any savings that you might experience, will often be off-set with the loss of certain discounts, such as a continuous coverage discount. In addition to that, often times people forget to put coverage back in place in the spring, and head out on the road without proper coverage.
If you still choose to reduce coverage during the winter months, you should maintain the comprehensive coverage in the event of fire, theft or roof collapse.
Summary
Of course, these are just a few of the answers to questions you may have. For more motorcycle insurance and safety information, contact Homewood Insurance Agency. Monty Homewood will be able to answer your questions and help you find the right policy at a great price.
