Now that you’ve bought the motorcycle of your dreams, you have something else to think about — insurance.
Insurance is required for all motor vehicles in Texas. In fact, if you don’t meet the minimum requirements, you could get your license suspended or motorcycle impounded.
Motorcycle insurance is different from car insurance. Riding a motorcycle is riskier than driving a car, which means that your insurance reflects that. Your insurance coverage will reflect the safety features of your bike, the costs of repair, and its value. The good news is that motorcycle insurance is not as expensive as car insurance. It’s often as much as 60 percent less.
The proper insurance can save you from serious financial losses after an accident, but if you’ve been injured by another driver, it’s best to contact an experienced Austin motorcycle accident lawyer today.
Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Texas?
Each state sets its own minimums for insurance coverage. For Texas, the minimum for motorcycles is 30/60/25.
This means that you must have liability insurance that covers:
- $30,000 in bodily damage per person
- $60,000 in bodily damage per accident
- $25,000 in property damage
Keep in mind that this is the minimum amount of coverage that you need to ride legally in Texas. To cover all the damages you could suffer in a crash, you may need much more. Motorcycles are smaller than cars but can cause significant damage, especially in terms of injuries. Therefore, the more liability insurance you can afford, the better.
Insurance Requirements for Different Types of Motorcycles
When discussing motorcycles, most people picture the same type of vehicle. However, under Texas law, a motorcycle is any motorized vehicle with a saddle for the rider. This means that other types of vehicles are looped into the motorcycle category, and are therefore subject to the same insurance requirements.
You’ll need the same level of insurance for these types of vehicles if you plan to ride them on public roads:
- Mopeds
- Motor-Driven Cycles
- Three-Wheeled Motorbikes
You won’t need insurance for all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, and golf carts, as these vehicle types are not permitted to operate on public roads.
What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Minimum Insurance Requirements?
If You Get Pulled Over
The first time that you get pulled over without insurance in Texas, you’ll be cited and fined between $175-$350. In addition, a $250 surcharge will be added to your driver’s relicensing fee for the next three years.
If you get pulled over again without insurance, the fees go up. You’ll be cited and fined between $350-$1000 and will also be subject to the $250 relicensing fee for three years. If you’re a habitual offender, you risk the chance of having your license revoked or motorcycle impounded.
If You Get in an Accident
The purpose of motorcycle insurance is to protect you, should you be involved in an accident. If you cause an accident and don’t have insurance, you’ll be liable for all costs involved. This means you’ll be on the hook for everything from property damage to personal injury costs.
Other Insurance Coverage
Collision
If you are financing your vehicle, you are usually required to purchase collision and comprehensive coverages. Collision coverage will repair your bike in the event of an accident, while comprehensive will pay for damages caused by other events, such as fire, floods, or theft. If your bike is customized, you should increase your coverage so you have the money to replace the parts if needed. If your bike is older, you may decide that you don’t need these coverages. Consider the value of your bike before purchasing.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a good idea, especially since many motorists do still drive without insurance. If you suffer serious injuries from an uninsured motorist, you’ll end up paying for your medical bills if you don’t have this type of insurance. This could mean hundreds of thousands of dollars out of your pocket.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is another good coverage to have. If you are stranded on the road, this coverage will pay for towing and the cost of a rental vehicle while your motorcycle is being repaired. It may pay for other expenses as well.
Practice Safe Driving by Getting Properly Insured
If you’re considering buying a motorcycle for the first time, you may want to learn more about your options. Oftentimes, you can get an adequate amount of insurance for less than what you pay to insure a passenger vehicle. If you’re not sure what types of insurance to get, reach out to a motorcycle insurance specialist near you.
The proper insurance can save you from serious financial losses after an accident, but if you’ve been injured by another driver, it’s best to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. At DJC Law, our team is ready to help assist you after an accident to help get you the compensation you deserve and hold negligent drivers and predatory insurance providers liable. Contact us today for a free case review.
