These vehicles are proving exceptionally popular again this year and they must have liability coverage.
With the second year of the pandemic, 2021 has brought a reminder of the California motorcycle insurance requirements for riders in the state. Motorcycles, like RVs, are very popular vehicles again this year and insurers are reminding riders to get the coverage required by law.
Though liability coverage is the minimum requirement many riders are choosing full coverage.
There are many different California motorcycle insurance companies selling coverage, and riders are often surprised at how inexpensive it is. These vehicles simply don’t come with the same premiums as cars, SUVs and trucks. As a result, many riders are taking the opportunity to choose full coverage policies instead of settling for the minimum liability cover.
Moreover, this coverage isn’t hard to find. Allstate, State Farm, Geico, Progressive, Nationwide, Dairyland and others sell highly rated policies with solid customer satisfaction ratings. Several companies offer substantial discounts for multiple policies, so consumers are encouraged to shop around and to check with their current provider of home or auto insurance to see if there is an opportunity for reduced rates. A prominent San Diego motorcycle accident lawyer notes that insurance companies may try to limit your claims, in which case you might need to seek legal representation.
California motorcycle insurance requirements haven’t changed despite a boost in riders.
There may be more riders on the roads, but Californian minimum coverage requirements remain the same as they were last year (as of the writing of this article). The following are the minimum liability insurance policy limits riders must carry in the state:
- $15,000 per person bodily injury liability
- $30,000 per accident bodily injury liability
- $5,000 property damage liability.
Riders are also encouraged to purchase medical coverage and – in the hopes of not having to make a claim – to purchase and wear full riding gear, including a properly-fitting helmet, jacket, gloves, pants and boots. These should be worn on every ride. Riding lessons are recommended for new riders so they can learn proper safety habits right from the start.
Other types of recommended coverage on top of the minimum required California motorcycle insurance include collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, or underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. It is substantially cheaper to purchase a policy in California than it is in much of the rest of the country. *The national average premiums may be $1,255, but they’re a considerably lower average of $796.92 for Californian riders.
*National average and California motorcycle insurance average rates updated 11/10/22
