Cheap Motorcycle Insurance in California
As Low As $9/month
Why do you need insurance for your motorcycle?
There’s more to riding a motorcycle than simply using it as a means of transport. You experience a high level of excitement, and in those moments when you’re cruising off into the sunset, nothing beats the freeing sensation that engulfs you.
California is known for its amazing scenery & beautiful weather, which is why it’s not surprising that it has the highest number of motorcycle registrations. Unfortunately, this state also has a high number of uninsured motorists.
Riding motorcycles is fun, but accidents risks are fairly high, especially with the many motorists on the road. The best way to protect yourself from the financial burden of damages caused by such accidents is by taking motorcycle insurance.
We have compiled everything you need to know about motorcycle insurance in California. Check out our comprehensive guide below!
A Quick Overview Into
Motorcycle Insurance in California
Motorcycle insurance is almost similar to vehicle insurance. There are some optional coverage options, but there are others that are required by your state of residence. Most of the time, the state only requires you to hold liability insurance that covers injuries or damages you may cause to other motorists and their properties. You can, however, choose optional coverages and limits to create a personalized policy that meets your individual needs.
Riding motorcycles is undoubtedly more dangerous than riding a car. In fact, statistics reveal that the rate of fatalities in motorcycle accidents is 29 times more than other kinds of vehicles. You have no business riding along the California roads uninsured!
If you value your safety and that of other motorists, it’s important that you invest in the best insurance. This also keeps you mindful of the California state law requirements.
What Are the Requirements for
Motorcycle Insurance in California?
It’s important for motorists that live or ride their motorcycles in California to familiarize themselves with the motorcycle insurance laws. According to the state, you should only ride your motorcycle if you have a valid license and an insurance policy. The good news is that getting a motorcycle license is fairly easy.
$15,000
$60,000
$30,000
You’re probably wondering, ‘Can I get additional motorcycle insurance coverage?’ The answer is yes! In fact, we recommend that you consider getting additional coverage such as uninsured motorist coverage and medical payments. While they aren’t needed to ride your motorcycle in California, they are in your best interests.
When purchasing insurance coverage, it’s crucial that you choose a package that satisfies your insurance needs. The inherent risks of riding a motorcycle are higher, which is why it’s even more important that you purchase additional coverage. The insurance minimums in California are only for liability coverage which pays for the damages that your accident causes to other motorists. What happens when you’re injured or your motorcycle is damaged in an accident? Will you be able to cover your medical bills and repair costs?
Insurance is there to protect you from the financial load of accidents, but few motorists ever think about their personal coverage. We advise that you pay the extra dollars in insurance premiums so as to protect yourself, too. Don’t forget to carry your proof of insurance at all times. If you’re pulled over and don’t have it, you may incur a fine or get a citation.
What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?
The minimum insurance requirements in California only covers 2 things:
- Bodily injury liability: covers certain damages if you kill or injure someone as you operate your motorcycle.
- Property damage liability: covers damages you cause to another person’s property when you’re involved in a motorcycle accident.
In addition to the above types of coverage, we recommend that you also get:
- Uninsured/ underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage: Covers personal injuries sustained by you and your passenger in accidents caused by other motorists who aren’t insured.
- Medical Payments: Covers injuries to you and your passenger after a covered accident, regardless of fault.
- Collision coverage: This will cover the damages your motorcycle sustained when you hit or are hit by another vehicle.
- Comprehensive physical damage coverage: Covers losses caused by other incidents such as vandalism, theft, or fire.
- Accessories coverage: Insures your accessories such as chrome pieces, saddlebags, CB radios, seats, etc. You’ll be required to carry collision coverage or comprehensive coverage on your policy to add this.
The thing about accidents is that they always come at the most unexpected times. When your motorcycle gets involved in one, you’ll be glad that you got additional coverage.
What Determines the Cost of Your Motorcycle Insurance in California?
Motorcycle insurance from MIS starts as low as $9 a month. Generally, motorcycle insurance is cheaper compared to car insurance. You should, however, note that the amount you pay is dependent on a couple of factors;
- The type of motorcycle you own (high performance and sports bikes have higher premiums)
- Your driving record (if it’s less than perfect, you’ll pay higher premiums)
- Your age.
- The deductibles and coverages.
- Riding experience.
You should also note that how you use your motorcycle also impacts your insurance rates. For instance, if you only use your motorcycle for recreational uses, you’ll pay less premiums compared to a rider that uses their bike to commute to and from work.
Motorcycle Insurance Questions and Answers
Is motorcycle insurance required in California?
Yes. Any motorcycle ridden or parked on California roads has to carry liability insurance. You need to show proof when you renew your registration, if an officer asks for it, and after a collision.
How much is motorcycle insurance in California?
As low as $9 a month at MIS. Your price depends on the type of bike, your riding record and experience, your age, where you live and the coverage you choose.
Can I pay for motorcycle insurance monthly?
Yes. Plans start as low as $9 a month.
What is the minimum motorcycle insurance required in California?
Liability coverage of at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage.
What is the best motorcycle insurance company in California?
There is no one best company for every rider. The right fit depends on your bike, your record and the coverage you want. MIS works with top-rated motorcycle insurance companies and matches you with the one that fits. Our customers rate us 4.9 out of 5 on Google, with more than 3,000 reviews.
What does motorcycle insurance cover?
That depends on the coverage you choose. Liability pays for injuries and damage you cause to other people. Collision and comprehensive pay for your own bike. Uninsured motorist and medical payments help with your own injuries.
How can I get cheap motorcycle insurance in California?
Compare more than one insurance company, carry only the coverage you need, pick a higher deductible, and ask about every discount. We do the comparing for you. Motorcycle insurance at MIS starts as low as $9 a month. Prices vary.
What is the difference between liability-only and full coverage motorcycle insurance?
Liability-only pays for harm you cause to other people and their property, and it is all the state requires. Full coverage adds collision and comprehensive, which pay to repair or replace your own bike after a crash, theft, fire or vandalism.
Do I need comprehensive and collision coverage for my motorcycle?
California does not require them. If you own the bike outright it is your choice, and they make sense when you could not afford to replace the bike out of pocket.
Does motorcycle insurance cover theft?
Only if you add comprehensive coverage. A liability-only policy does not cover a stolen bike.
Does motorcycle insurance cover injuries to the rider?
Not with liability alone. Your own injuries are covered by medical payments coverage, or by uninsured motorist coverage when the driver who hit you is at fault and has no insurance or too little.
Does motorcycle insurance cover passengers?
It can. Medical payments coverage helps with a passenger’s medical bills no matter who is at fault, and guest passenger liability covers a passenger when you cause the crash. Coverage differs by company, so tell us if you carry a passenger and we will make sure it is on the policy.
Does motorcycle insurance cover damage caused by an uninsured driver?
Only if you add the right coverage. Uninsured motorist bodily injury pays for your injuries. Damage to the bike is paid by collision coverage, or by uninsured motorist property damage if your policy has it.
How much motorcycle insurance should I have in California?
More than the minimum, if you can. The minimum only pays for damage and injuries you cause to others. It does not pay to fix or replace your bike, or for your own injuries. See how much motorcycle insurance you really need.
What factors affect motorcycle insurance rates in California?
The make, model and engine size of your bike, your age and years of riding, your driving record, your ZIP code, how you use the bike, and the coverage and deductibles you choose.
Can I get motorcycle insurance with a suspended license or a bad driving record?
In many cases, yes. MIS specializes in high-risk drivers, including riders with tickets, accidents or a DUI. Call (800) 726-0640 and an agent will tell you which insurance companies will cover you.
Does motorcycle insurance cover custom parts and accessories?
Many policies include a limited amount for accessories when you carry comprehensive and collision, and you can buy a higher limit. Tell us what you have added to the bike and what it is worth.
Do I need motorcycle insurance if my bike is financed or leased?
Yes. On top of the liability coverage the state requires, your lender or leasing company will almost always require comprehensive and collision until the bike is paid off.
Can I insure a motorcycle without a motorcycle license in California?
Often, yes. Some insurance companies will write a policy for a rider who has a permit or is still working toward an M1 license, though the price can be higher. You need the license or permit before you ride.
Are there discounts on motorcycle insurance in California?
Yes. Common discounts are for finishing a rider safety course, insuring more than one bike, paying in full and keeping a clean record. They differ from company to company, so we check them when we quote you.
Can I pause or cancel motorcycle insurance when I am not riding?
You can, but think it through first. With no comprehensive coverage, a stored bike is not covered for theft or fire. A gap in coverage can also raise your price later. If the bike stays registered, ask the DMV about filing an Affidavit of Non-Use before you cancel. Some companies offer a lay-up option that keeps comprehensive on while the bike is parked.
Can I get motorcycle insurance today?
In most cases, yes. Call (800) 726-0640 or send the quote form on this page. An agent can start your policy and send your proof of insurance the same day.
Can I get SR-22 insurance for a motorcycle?
Yes, in most cases. We set up your motorcycle insurance and file your SR-22 with the DMV for you, so you take care of both in one call to (800) 726-0640. If you also drive a car, tell us, because that changes how the SR-22 should be set up. Learn about SR-22 insurance.
Why Do You Need Motorcycle Insurance in California?
Motorcycle insurance is not an option; it’s a necessity. As a rider, you probably exercise caution while on the road, but the truth is that accidents are unplanned. Some of the reasons why you should always carry the recommended coverage include;
- Help with medical bills: when you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, the weight of the medical bills can be crippling.
- Covers the property damages: if you cause a motorcycle accident and have to cover the damages caused to the other motorist’s vehicle or property, property damage liability insurance will help you cover the costs.
- Helps with fixing your bike: as a motorcycle rider, few things are as precious as your bike. Even after a collision, you’ll still want to get back on the road as soon as possible. This will be difficult if your bike is damaged and you have no way of fixing it. Getting collision coverage helps you get your bike fixed after a covered accident.
Most importantly, with motorcycle insurance, you have peace of mind as you ride your bike since it protects you against certain losses when you’re involved in an accident.
Looking for Cheap Motorcycle Insurance?
MIS Insurance Has Got Your Back!
When it comes to choosing the right motorcycle insurance policy, a one-size-fits-all approach never works. You need to go for a policy that’s as unique as your riding style and is sufficient to cater to your unique needs. If you’re looking for the lowest rates, then MIS insurance has got you covered. We provide affordable motorcycle insurance in California and have one of the highest customer satisfaction rates on Google.
We only partner with the top-rated motorcycle insurance companies in California to ensure that you get the best coverage options and at the lowest rates. Whether you own a touring bike, sports bike, cruiser, or a custom ride, you can always count on us for the best rates. Let us help you rev up your savings. Call us at 800-726-0640 Call Recording Disclaimer today for a free motorcycle insurance quote!
Fast Motorcycle Insurance Quote
MIS Insurance provides motorcycle insurance across all cities in California including: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim, Riverside, Stockton, Chula Vista, Irvine, Fremont, San Bernardino, Modesto, Fontana, Oxnard, Moreno Valley, Huntington Beach, Glendale, Santa Clarita, Oceanside, Garden Grove, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Rosa, Ontario, Elk Grove