Although insurance requirements are the same for all motor vehicles, motorcycle insurance coverage may cost slightly more based on the risks associated with owning and driving a bike and the number of motorcycle insurance claims filed each year. Some minimum coverages are extremely low, while others are considered high. For example, states such as Louisiana and Florida only require 10/20/10 (that’s $10,000 per person up to a maximum of $20,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage), while Alaska and Maine require 50/100/25. So, if you own and operate a motorcycle in the state of Maine, you will be required to carry a minimum of 50/100/25.
Even for motorcycles, most state minimum requirements are not enough to cover you and any other injured parties in the event of an accident that you are found to be liable for. As a result, most state insurance agencies and auto insurance companies recommend carrying 100/300/100 to be on the safe side, plus uninsured, underinsured motorist coverage in as much as you can carry. If these coverage amounts seem excessive, consider the cost of your bike, medical expenses, lost wages, and any other expenses that you might have to pay resulting from a serious accident involving multiple parties and injuries.
Besides mandatory insurance, each state has specific motorcycle laws involving safety and specific licensing issues. Contact your insurance agent or your state division of insurance to learn more about motorcycle safety, licensing, and insurance laws.