It’s no surprise in a state with majestic coastlines, picturesque lakes to visit, and open roads, that motorcycles are so popular in Michigan. In fact, some 308,338 bikes make Michigan rank 23rd in the US for motorcycle ownership.
As motorcycle enthusiasts, you know there’s nothing like hitting the open road on your bike, maybe heading north or for a Sunday spin.
No matter how much you love it, motorcycle riding comes with some inherent risks. It’s important to have the proper motorcycle insurance to protect yourself and your bike.
Are you wondering if you have the right coverage for you and your bike? Do you know what the requirements are for coverage in Michigan? Read on for all you need to know about motorcycle insurance in Michigan.
What Are the Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Michigan?
First, it’s important to know how motorcycles are classified in Michigan. Interestingly enough, Michigan does not classify motorcycles as motor vehicles. This means you do not have to have the same no-fault insurance that cars and trucks do in Michigan.
However, as a motorcycle rider in an accident in Michigan, you are still able to use the benefits of no-fault insurance.
There are other requirements for Michigan motorcyclists. The minimum requirements include:
- $20,000 in bodily injury per person
- $40,000 in bodily injury per incident
- $10,000 in property damage per incident
Remember, as a motorcyclist, you have an increased risk by riding your bike. It’s always a smart idea to choose additional coverage above the minimum requirement.
What Are the Different Coverage Options for Motorcycle Insurance?
You likely know about liability insurance. This is the one type of coverage that’s required for motorcyclists in Michigan. If you are involved in an accident, the liability insurance protects you if you are at fault from medical bills or repairs from others who are part of the accident.
There are several other types of insurance you should be aware of for your motorcycle. Let’s take a closer look at those now.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Sadly, there are people out there who do not carry the correct amount of coverage. If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured individual this coverage would make sure you have the protection you need. This coverage allows your personal policy to pay you as if the other person’s policy would have normally.
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
If your bike is involved in an accident, your comprehensive and collision coverage would cover damages or losses. Comprehensive and collision coverage will cover:
- Natural disasters like wind storms or tornadoes
- Animal collisions like hitting a deer
- Crashes with other vehicles on the road
It would also protect you in the event of your bike being stolen. More on this later.
Custom Parts, Equipment, and Accessories Coverage
There is your bike and then there is your totally ramped up and customized bike. Many motorcycle owners relish in the process of making their bikes completely customized. Of course, this adds to the value of the bike.
While comprehensive and collision coverage will cover your bike, the coverage is only up to a certain limit. If you have invested in costly customization, you will want additional coverage to ensure that all your customized items are covered as well.
Trip Interruption Coverage
There is nothing like going out to hit the open road. Scenic Michigan is made for bike trips galore. If you are like many Michigan bikers, you appreciate hopping on your motorcycle and taking trips.
But what happens if you are on your bike and something goes wrong and you get stuck? Trip interruption coverage is a type of rider you can add to your policy to protect you, just in case.
Typically, if you are more than 100 miles from home, you can have your lodging, food, and transportation covered while you wait to get your bike running again.
Do I Need to Insure My Bike During Winter or Other Lay-Up Periods?
In states like Michigan, winter hangs around for a long time, and riding the motorcycle isn’t possible with the cold and snow. It makes sense to want to save some money on insurance at a time when you are not using the bike.
Many insurance companies offer something called a lay-up plan. This allows you to have comprehensive coverage so the bike is protected, but drop the liability part of the coverage while you are not actively riding.
What Are Common Motorcycle Insurance Discounts?
No one likes to pay more for insurance than necessary. Typically, motorcycle insurance in Michigan is less costly than auto insurance. This is, again, likely in part because motorcycles don’t fall under Michigan’s no-fault laws.
Having said that, there are still a few ways you can save some money on your motorcycle insurance.
First, if you opt to take the motorcycle safety course and get certified, many insurers will offer a better rate because you have the safety certification.
If you are insuring another vehicle, talk to your insurance company about bundling. You can often get a reduced rate by having more than one car and motorcycle insured under the same policy.
Some insurance companies also offer discounts for mature riders over a certain age, if you have multiple motorcycles insured or discounts if you are a member of certain motorcycle organizations.
Does Insurance Cover a Stolen Motorcycle?
The only insurance required in Michigan for a motorcycle is liability insurance. Remember, liability insurance covers injuries including medical bills in the event of an accident.
If you want your motorcycle protected from theft, you want to add comprehensive coverage. Most comprehensive coverage plans include theft.
But be sure to ask your insurance agent not only if theft is covered, but also are there any limits on value for coverage.
Where Can I Purchase Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan?
Talk to your insurance agent or contact Doyle & Ogden Insurance. We offer coverage for our home, auto, motorcycle, boats, and much more. By placing all your policies with the same company you can save.
Choosing Motorcycle Insurance for Your Needs
There is nothing like hitting the open road on your motorcycle during the warm months in Michigan. You just want to make sure you have the correct motorcycle insurance so you know you are covered out on the road.
Are you interested in getting a quote for all your insurance needs? We’ve got you covered from home and auto to all your recreation vehicles that are so popular in Michigan.
Get a quote today to make sure you have the coverage you need on your motorcycle.
