Motorcycle and Scooter Insurance Basics

While drivers of motorcycles and scooters can likely speak for hours about the variances between these two vehicles, when you are looking at them in terms of insurance, these two bikes often have coverage options that are identical. Sure, when you ride, the power of the engine in a motorcycle is vastly greater than that of a scooter, but realistically, both machines subject their riders to the same types of risks. It is important to note that state minimums and maximums for each type of coverage can vary so check with your state’s department of insurance to get the details.

In general, drivers of both can expect to choose:

Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability: This is a required coverage in 49 states. Bodily injury liability covers the injuries you might cause to others when you are at-fault in an accident. Property damage covers the property that you might damage in an accident that is your fault. These coverages ensure that an individual damaged by you either physically or financially has a means to seek reimbursement that does not rely on you having sufficient savings.

Comprehensive and Collision: If your motorcycle is damaged in an accident and you are at-fault, or if it is stolen or vandalized, then comprehensive and collision coverage is the way toward a new bike or repairs.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage: While insurance might be required for all drivers in your state, that doesn’t mean they will actually carry it. When you are in an accident and an uninsured motorist is at-fault, you need to get reimbursed by the uninsured driver unless you have uninsured motorist coverage, in which case you can get benefits from your policy.

Custom Parts and Equipment: Many motorcycles and scooters are upgraded by their owners and have custom parts and equipment. Because this changes the value of the bike from its stock value, additional insurance benefits may be necessary. Custom parts and equipment coverage is an optional coverage that is often part of your comprehensive and collision coverage.

Many of the largest differences in motorcycle and scooter insurance coverage will come in when rates are factored, because the size of the motor, weekly mileage and accident information for your area will all be factored in. Make sure you specify which type of bike you ride when you shop for the insurance and that you are familiar with all your state’s requirements.


Contact us today for your own Philadelphia Motorcycle Insurance quote!