All You Need to Know About the
Best Motorcycle Insurance in California
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, get citations, and in some cases face jail time.
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?
Generally, motorcycle insurance is cheaper compared to car insurance. It’s even cheaper in California, where you only pay an average rate of $690, while the national average is $1,173. 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.
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