Are you a rider and want to know more about your motorcycle insurance? Here’s some basic information.
1) What’s covered?
2) What about my premium?
3) Safety on the road
1) What’s covered?
If you own a motorcycle, moped, motor scooter or motor-assisted bicycle, you should get covered!
First, you should know that mandatory and minimum insurance coverage requirements vary from province to province. But your basic policy will typically include those coverage:
Third-party liability means you have protection in the event you are responsible for bodily injury or property damage to others. In Quebec body injuries are covered through a public insurance plan.
Accident benefits coverage pays for medical treatment, income replacement and other benefits to help you recover if you are injured in a collision, regardless of who caused it.
Uninsured automobile coverage protects you in the event of death or injury caused by an uninsured motorist.
2) What about my premium?
Your premium depends on factors such as your age, riding experience, type of motorcycle, moped, motor scooter or motor-assisted bicycle you own, where you live and how many claims you’ve made.
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Motorcycle insurance is more expensive than car insurance
In fact, it’s generally more expensive !
Because driving a motorcycle is riskier than driving a car. The vehicle may cost less but that has almost no bearing on the likelihood on an accident, which is much greater in the case of a motorcycle.
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How to keep motorcycle insurance cost down
What can you do to have a cheaper policy?
Having a higher deductible will decrease your premium.
You can also take an approved motorcycle training course that will show your insurance company that you drive safely.
But the best option to decrease your premium is…
Bundling your coverages. You can bundle moto and tenants insurance or moto and car insurance.
3) Safety on the road
Do you know that motorcycle sales are increasing in Canada?
This means many new riders are taking to the roads.
Here are some tips to keep you rolling safely!
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Stay focused
You should predict the worst-case scenario and be ready to have an escape route. Pay attention to potential hazards as you ride. Avoid gravel, oil, mud, water, wet leaves and rocks that can cause your motorcycle to slide or topple over.
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Mind the gap
Leave an adequate gap between you and the vehicle in front of you!
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Stay visible
Always position yourself where others on the road can easily see you.
Be sure to use signal lane changes!
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Maintain your bike
Have your motorcycle regularly maintained by a good mechanic and check it yourself before and after each ride.
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Dress for the fall
The proper gear –safety helmet, eye protection, motorcycle jacket and pants, gloves and over-the-ankle boots – may help reduce your risk of serious injury.
Drive safely!
In case of a road accident check our guide to know what to do after a collision and how to get compensation !