Motorcycle Insurance
Coverage Guide
Understand why motorcycle liability, medical, and UM/UIM considerations may differ from standard auto insurance.
Important
A motorcycle is not just a car with two wheels.
Coverage structures can differ significantly.
Insurance requirements and available coverages for motorcycles can differ from private passenger auto insurance — particularly with medical benefits, PIP/no-fault treatment, and UM/UIM. Understanding those differences is part of making sure your coverage actually fits.
State-specific insurance rules and requirements vary. This guide covers general concepts. Your agent can help you understand what applies in your state and for your specific situation.
Protecting Others
Liability coverage
Motorcycle liability coverage pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. Like auto liability, it does not cover your own injuries or your motorcycle.
Bodily Injury Liability
Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages for people injured in an accident you caused.
- Applies to other riders, drivers, passengers, and pedestrians
- Covers legal defense costs if you are sued
- Does not cover your own injuries
Property Damage Liability
Covers damage you cause to another vehicle or property.
- Covers other vehicles, fences, buildings, and other property
- Does not cover damage to your own motorcycle
Protecting Yourself
UM/UIM and medical coverage
Motorcycle riders face unique exposure when it comes to injuries. Understanding what protection is available to you — and how it may differ from your auto policy — is important.
Uninsured Motorist (UM)
Covers your injuries when you are hit by a driver who has no insurance.
- Availability and structure may differ from auto UM coverage
- State rules vary significantly
- Ask your agent how UM applies to your motorcycle policy specifically
Underinsured Motorist (UIM)
Covers the gap when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your losses.
- Particularly relevant given the injury exposure of motorcycle riding
- State availability and requirements vary
- Coverage structure may differ from auto UIM
Medical / Injury Protection
Covers medical expenses after an accident. Availability and structure vary by state and policy.
- PIP (no-fault) treatment of motorcycles varies by state
- Some states exclude motorcycles from PIP requirements
- MedPay may be available as an alternative in some states
- Ask your agent what medical coverage options are available for your motorcycle
State-specific considerations
Motorcycle insurance rules — including PIP/no-fault treatment, UM/UIM requirements, and available medical coverages — vary significantly by state. This guide covers general concepts only. State-specific requirements should be discussed with your agent.
Protecting the Motorcycle
Physical damage coverage
Collision
Pays for damage to your motorcycle when it collides with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault.
- Subject to your deductible
- May not be required if your motorcycle is paid off
Comprehensive
Pays for damage from non-collision events such as theft, weather, fire, or vandalism.
- Subject to your deductible
- Theft is a significant risk for motorcycles — worth considering
Accessories and Custom Equipment
Standard policies may not automatically cover aftermarket parts, custom paint, or accessories.
- Custom equipment coverage may need to be added separately
- Document modifications and their value
- Ask your agent what is and is not covered under your base policy
Optional Coverage
Everyday and convenience add-ons
Roadside Assistance
Covers towing and roadside help if your motorcycle breaks down.
- Helpful for minor inconveniences
- May duplicate coverage from other memberships
Other Optional Benefits
Some carriers offer additional optional coverages such as trip interruption or transport trailer coverage.
- Availability varies by carrier
- Consider whether the benefit justifies the additional premium
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