HJC Helmets Forum

I’m sure many of you have had your bike and quite possibly the same motorcycle insurance for some time now. In today’s economy where everyone is looking to save money, the first place you can start is with your motorcycle insurance. If you haven’t shopped around for quotes from different insurance companies, you're definitely doing yourself a disservice.

Rates for motorcycle insurance will vary greatly from company to company. I just switched over my car insurance and was astonished at how low my rate went with my new company. I never knew what I was missing until I decided to shop around. There are a few things to consider though when shopping for new insurance, especially if you’ve never done so before.

1. Make sure you know who is underwriting your insurance. If you deal with a broker who is searching for the best deal, just make sure you know whether Geico, Dairyland, Allstate or some other company is underwriting you. When it comes to your finances, you should always know who you’re dealing with.

2. Check state and local laws. There may be certain insurance requirements you need for yourself, passengers, and equipment. You also may need a certain amount of coverage or a certain type. Some states don’t require collision and comprehensive insurance or medical coverage if it is covered elsewhere, perhaps by your work. Likewise, you may not need insurance for a passenger if you never plan on having someone ride with you.

3. Search around for discounts. Some insurance companies will offer discounts to riders who are a member of a riding organization or who have passed a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) rider course. Read carefully though, because some companies who offer a MSF discount require that the course be completed within the past few years.

While you can certainly save on your motorcycle insurance, perhaps without even changing your limits, be careful not to under-insure yourself. You want to make sure that you are adequately covered for uninsured motorist and medical liability coverage for those injured when a crash is your fault. If you have questions, ask your insurance agent. Just be sure that you have proper coverage where you need it.

-Julie