Why is Motorcycle Insurance Much Cheaper than Car Insurance?

In every state, motorcyclists must carry insurance, but the extent of that coverage varies. The same can be said for car insurance. Given that both are a means of transportation, this makes sense. Although, why is it that when motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in an accident than other motor vehicle drivers, why is motorcycle insurance cheaper than car insurance? It's a good question. But before we answer it, let's look at the difference between the insurance policies for each vehicle type with help from Steelhorse Law.

For more than a decade, our dedicated attorneys have been battling biker biases and helping hog enthusiasts get the justice they deserve after an accident. Unsure if you've got a case? Steelhorse Law offers a free initial consultation to everyone who enters our doors to help them determine just that. But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Let's get back to talking about motorcycle insurance vs. car insurance.

Motorcycle vs. Car Insurance

When comparing motorcycle insurance to car insurance, it's important to understand that the key difference is that insurance companies classify motorcycles as "recreational vehicles," meaning they are primarily used for leisurely activities. Cars are typically categorized as personal or commercial vehicles, meaning they're used for functional purposes. Consequently, motorcycle insurance policies may offer different coverage options than car insurance policies.

Regarding coverage options, insurance providers may offer specialized protection designed for motorcycles. This can include coverage for custom parts and accessories. On the other hand, car insurance policies provide broader coverage options, such as liability protection and collision damage.

Cost is another important factor influencing the insurance price for motorcycles and cars. Generally, motorcycles are less expensive than most other vehicles on the road. However, this doesn't hold for classic motorcycles. Insurance for classic motorcycles can often cost up to three times more than standard coverage, as these vehicles are considered antique or vintage.

Tips for Bike Riders

Just like with auto insurance, you should always strive to maintain a clean bike driving record. The cleaner the record, the lower your premium will be. If you're looking to trim down the cost of your insurance plan, there are a few ways you may be able to do that.

1. Course discounts. Similar to five-hour courses when getting your regular license, a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course may be near you. This comprehensive program is dedicated to improving motorcyclists' knowledge and safe driving skills.

2. Multi-bike discounts. If you have multiple bikes, you may be able to bundle their insurance policies and save.

3. Member discounts. If you belong to a motorcycle club or another association, you may be able to save.

4. Mature rider discounts. If you're a more experienced rider, you may be able to save money on your policy.

5. Lay-up discounts. Usually reserved for Northern states, you may be able to suspend coverage during winter months when the bike can't be used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Remember, the most significant reason insurance availability and coverage varies so much between a bike and a car is that there are entirely different modes of transportation. While bikes are faster than cars, they don't offer as much protection. On the other hand, while cars are slower, they're heavier and larger, which means they have more potential to cause serious damage.

What Influences Motorcycle Insurance Costs?

Several factors can influence the price of your motorcycle insurance. One of the most important factors is the type of motorcycle you own. High-performance motorcycles and sports bikes tend to be more expensive, which can increase your premium. Another factor in your driving experience is your age. Younger drivers tend to have higher insurance premiums than those driving for several years. The amount you pay for insurance coverage can also be influenced by where you live. In addition, the type and amount of coverage you choose for your policy can impact how much you pay.

Is Motorcycle Insurance Separate from Car Insurance?

In short, yes. While both insurance types cover modes of transportation, they're entirely different and have unique requirements. If you have one form of coverage and want to add another vehicle type, you'll have to purchase another policy.

Why Does Insuring a Motorcycle Cost Less?

Why is motorcycle insurance so cheap? For one thing, motorcycles aren't able to be driven in snow or other inclement weather. They can also do less damage to property in an accident, making liability coverage cheaper than other motor vehicles. Motorcycles are also generally less expensive to repair due to the simpler design, smaller size, fewer parts, and easier accessibility. However, the latter may not apply to "high-end" bikes.

Which is Easier to Insure, a Bike or Car?

There are more car insurance options than motorcycle insurance, but motorcycle coverage is sold in every state. Some companies may not offer motorcycle insurance but partner with other companies that do to provide customers with bundles.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

If you are in a motorcycle accident, it is critical to understand what your insurance policy will cover. In general, motorcycle insurance works in a way similar to car insurance. After an accident, the insurance policy will provide financial protection for various damages and injuries you have suffered.

A typical insurance policy for a motorcycle will include:

-—� Liability Insurance: Covers bodily injuries and property damages caused by the motorcyclist. It does not cover any injuries sustained by the driver or damages to the motorcycle.

-—� Collision Insurance: Covers repairs or replacement of the motorcycle when there is a collision with a vehicle or any other object.

-—� Comprehensive Insurance: Covers motorcycle repairs or replacement when stolen, vandalized, or destroyed.

-—� Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance: Covers uninsured motorist accidents or a motorist with insufficient insurance coverage to cover damages incurred.

What Happens if I Get in a Wreck Without Motorcycle Insurance?

It might be tempting to ride without motorcycle insurance. Trust us when we say that the potential consequences of this choice, especially if you end up in a wreck, aren't worth it.

The first thing to note is that Georgia maintains a database that sends automatic notifications if insurance coverage lapses. When you get notified, you have 30 days to provide new insurance. If you fail to do so, you'll be fined. Continued failure to renew it will lead to your license and registration being suspended, meaning you won't be able to drive any vehicle, not just your bike.

If you end up in an accident, the first thing that will happen is first responders, police included, getting called to the scene. The other parties will begin exchanging contact information and insurance details if physically able. Things get complicated when they ask you for yours, and you cannot provide it. Unfortunately for you, if you're at all responsible for the accident, according to the law, you'll have to pay for the damages they incurred. Without insurance coverage, this can be expensive. It may lead to your wages being garnished, lost assets, and more.

Again, unfortunately for you, if you're caught up in an accident and are found to be driving without insurance, even if you're not at fault, you'll minimally be cited by the officer. The fee attached to the citation will cost you way more than the insurance reinstatement fee.

Let Our Team Help You

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a terrifying ordeal. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover damages. Consult with a property damage lawyer from Steelhorse Law as soon as possible to discuss the coverage that may be available. We will defend your legal rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.

Our team has fought to protect the legal rights of individuals across Georgia who have been harmed in accidents through no fault for over a decade. If you have been injured, contact our dedicated legal team to schedule a free consultation to see how we can help you.