Most states require their motorcyclists to carry motorcycle insurance. But what happens when you cross state lines? What if you need to rent a motorcycle in a
different state?
You can rent a motorcycle in a different state as long as you have a motorcycle license from your home state. Be careful when it comes to your insurance policy, however, because it may not cover your rental. Motorcycle rentals typically come with the amount of liability insurance required by the state in which you are renting. For example, Missouri requires bikers to carry:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $10,000 in property damage liability
The rental company may also offer supplemental liability insurance for an extra cost per day. Keep in mind that liability insurance doesn’t cover everything. Unless you purchase extra coverage from the rental company (which can be as high as $35 a day), you may be open to risks.
This is why it’s important to understand the limits of your motorcycle policy. Some policies include rentals while others don’t. Double check with your insurance agent about whether your policy covers motorcycle rentals.
Does Liability Motorcycle Insurance Cover in Different States?
Since states have different liability requirements, you may be wondering if your insurance is sufficient even if it does cover rentals in different states. Thankfully, your insurance adjusts to cover the correct amount of liability required by the state in which the accident occurs. For example, in Illinois you must carry $15,000 in property damage liability for motorcycles. If you rent a motorcycle in Illinois with an insurance policy from Missouri, which only requires $10,000, your policy will adjust to cover $15,000.
Be sure to research the different motorcycle laws and requirements before renting a motorcycle in a different state. Some states have higher requirements for insurance and safety gear while others may not have as many strict requirements as your home state.
Important coverage to have no matter where you are includes:
- Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage compensates for damages due to fire, theft, vandalism, wind and more.
- Collision Coverage: Collision coverage compensates for damages from a collision with another vehicle or object.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): PIP helps with medical expenses for you and your passengers.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: This steps in if you crash with a driver not carrying insurance.
ALSO READ: Can I Change My Auto Insurance Coverage Whenever I Want?